900 join quit smoking challenge

 


Almost 900 people from Greater Sudbury entered the Canadian Cancer Society's Driven to Quit Challenge in April.

The challenge was launched in February to support Smoke-Free Ontario legislation that came into effect on May 31.

Each smoker had to sign up a non-smoking buddy to support them as they tried to quit smoking.

The grand prize winner of a 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid was Lynn Marchand of Cornwall, Ont.

Debbie St. Germain of Garson, Gail Cormier of Warren, Laura Owl of Massey, Roberta McKenzie of Tehkummah and Helen McWatch of Chapleau were all winners of $250 and heart health lifestyle prize.

Having almost 1,000 people from this community sign up for the event was encouraging, says Tina Skjonsby-McKinnon, a public health nurse with the Sudbury and District Health Unit.

"Each of them is to be congratulated," she said, in a news release. "Actually, no matter what, all contestants win. They have made a positive step for their health."

The Ontario Tobacco-Free Network, local Tobacco Councils and Heart Health Coalitions promoted the Driven to Quit Challenge.

Helpful tips to pursue during the difficult battle to quit smoking include keeping active, staying busy, brushing and flossing teeth to remind quitters of the benefits of being smoke-free and keeping healthy snacks readily available.

The local health unit offers personalized support to help smokers quit. For information or to book an appointment with the Tobacco Treatment Clinic, call the Tobacco Action Line at 1-866-522-3433 or visit www.sdhu.com.