Mark Twain quipped, “Quitting smoking is easy. I’ve done it a thousand times.” For anyone who has tried to quit these words ring true – too often, failure is the result of many a well-intentioned attempt. Nicotine is the addicting culprit, and a number of tactics can help smokers get the better of it for good.
Marshall Medical Center can help. Supported by a generous grant from the Marshall Foundation for Community Health, Marshall is offering its first Smoking Cessation Program. The class follows closely on the heels of its recent announcement of Marshall campuses going “smoke free” over the next few months.

“Smoking is something few people actually want to do,” says Marshall’s Cancer Services Manager, Annette Glass. “There are some former smokers out there who quit the old fashioned way, cold turkey. But I think they’re rare. The emotional and physical dependence on nicotine can’t be overestimated. Most people need a lot of help, and we think we’ve put together a program that will do that effectively.”

The program, taught by two Marshall staff members who are certified smoking cessation facilitators, runs seven weeks. The first session is on Monday, July 9, from 6-8 p.m. and will continue on each following Monday at the same time. During the third week, there will also be a Wednesday session in addition to the Monday class. The program will be held right across from the hospital in Placerville.

“We wanted to sweeten the deal a bit to take the class, so we’re offering special pricing and complete fee refunds for people who complete the course,” Annette adds. The entire class fee is just $30 per person, and only $50 for couples – all refunded upon course completion with 100% attendance at all sessions. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. People should call Marshall Health Promotions at (530) 626-2990 to sign up. Cash, Check and Visa are accepted.