Wednesday is World No Tobacco Day, an initiative of the World Health Organisation to fight back against the threat of smoking across the globe with the catch cry, “protect health, reduce poverty and promote development.” 

Locally, seven Billabong Clubhouse members have taken on the challenge to quit, and live healthier lives.

Fidget spinners might be the bane of every teacher’s existence at the moment, but for Mr Cameron they have become a life saver, and a valuable addition to the program.

“I have tried countless times before, last year I quit for ten weeks through the program – that was my best effort yet, but it will be two weeks this time and I feel good,” Mr Cameron said.

On top of the fidget spinner which “gives me something to do with my hands,” the clubhouse member is also using Nicotine Replacement Therapy, namely patches and lozenges, as well as the support of his fellow quitters and strong support systems in place at Billabong Clubhouse.

Support worker Kevin Rooney said that it is all part of the healthy living program.

“Smoking, diet and general health are all part and parcel of well-being,” Mr Rooney said.

“There is a high percentage of people with mental health issues that smoke so we run this program twice a year. We educate members of the dangers, health risks, and financial burden.

“People quit and people fall back, but it is the journey to well-being and healthy living.” 

Mr Cameron smoked 20 cigarettes a day before quitting, and claims that the difference he feels is “incredible”.

“It’s awesome – I still get cravings but I wake up better, I feel better, food and drinks taste and smell so much better, and I have got about $150 extra cash a week,” Mr Cameron said.

“It gets easier every time, and this time I feel stronger.”