I gave up nearly three years ago (on July 20) after smoking for 37 years. Just over two years ago I was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. I haven`t escaped unscathed but at least I escaped.
My mom smoked. Died of lung cancer at 56 years old. She quit cold turkey, at the end (and even though it was too late, she COULD breath better during those last months, so that was some comfort)............
My Mum too Jen, only difference was she was sixtyfour. You would have thought I would have learned then. Yes, I was addicted to the damn things and it was so very hard to quit, even now I dare not have just half a cigarette because I know I will be back to square one.
I applaud all those who never have nor will smoke, and to those who do, I have been there, it is so hard to quit I know, but please keep trying, you can do it, really.

Chris