It’s true. Try as I may, my efforts to find a gripping title meant to lure the reader into literary utopia have been for naught. There you have it, ‘Smoking Cessation’. Full stop.

Today I co-hosted a smoking cessation presentation at work for my fellow employees. There were two people in attendance, so I met the minimum requirement to pluralize ’employee’. Close one there.

Out of approximately 70 employees, half of which are full-time, I was able to interest two individuals into an hour of describing stages of change, discussing coping strategies and re-iterating all the wonderful health benefits of quitting smoking. Four people actually signed up; one bailed at the last minute and another was sick. We had a low-fat meat and cheese tray (har har) and another with assorted veggies that proved to be ever so slightly less popular. It was like an oxymoronic ‘group one-on-one’ session that descended into rambling whenever an awkward pause threatened to become pregnant.

You know what?

It was awesome.

I believe we left an impression on those two individuals. At the end of the session, they had a few more items to think about and some formal perspective on their smoking situation. The presentation was smooth and as always, the discussion generated among the group was invaluable to us as practitioners; we tend to incorporate key comments about successes / challenges of those living the experience into future presentations.

The end realization is that I scheduled and coordinated this event because I wanted to. I wasn’t asked, and I didn’t get any budget breaks or bonuses for its completion.  The fact of the matter is I show up for work every day and see smokers lining the plaza at all hours. Many of these folks have no intention of quitting nor are they interested in exploring the possible options. I certainly don’t begrudge them for that at all. But maybe, just maybe, a few of those folks have really struggled with their attempts to quit and lack any confidence to push through. If I make myself available, and convey that I want to help, perhaps that contact can make a difference.

Here’s hoping the next one, – and yes, there will be a next one 🙂 – , will build off of this and bring the discussion to two more people. If I’m lucky, maybe word of mouth will help the turnout. If I have to do 10 more sessions to help 10 more people, I’ll gladly sign up. As an added bonus, I may even be able to prescribe something for those that ask for help.

I have to say, I’m really enjoying being a pharmacist right now. I hope the ride lasts for awhile yet…

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, employer or affiliation.