Make 2010 a Smoke-Free Year

LANSING, MI (12/10/2009)(readMedia)-- Are you looking for a way to quit smoking in 2010? This January - right when quitting smoking tops many New Year's resolution lists - St. Joseph Mercy Port Huron will offer the American Lung Association's highly acclaimed Freedom From Smoking program.

The 7-week, 8-session class will be held at 5:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, located at 2601 Electric Avenue in Port Huron. Classes start Monday, January 11th, 2010 and will run until Monday, February 22, 2010, with two sessions held during the fourth week (which is "quit week").

Freedom From Smoking provides the knowledge and support you need to quit and live the rest of your life without tobacco. Based on the latest research on addiction and behavior change, this medically sound program addresses the difficulties of quitting with a sensitive, encouraging style. The ultimate goal is to help individuals overcome their addiction and enjoy the benefits of better health.

There are many programs designed to help people quit smoking, but none of them match the success of the Freedom From Smoking program. Over twenty-five percent of people who use this program are smoke-free after one year compared to 5% of people who quit cold turkey.

Freedom From Smoking features a supportive group environment and method that teaches smokers how to change their behavior step-by-step for long-term success. Since no two smokers are alike, the program helps people develop a "quit plan" to fit their specific needs. It covers topics such as assessing readiness to quit, identifying triggers, coping with social situations and quit smoking medications.

The cost for the program is $60.00 for non-employees and $40.00 for St. Joseph Mercy Port Huron employees. The non-refundable fee is due at the first session date. Pre-registration is required. Please contact Erica Gurley at 810-966-3132 for further information or to register.

About St. Joseph Mercy Port Huron

St. Joseph Mercy Port Huron provides a comprehensive array of community - based health and medical services. Formerly known as Mercy Hospital, patients can expect to receive the same patient focused, quality care they have come to expect from a leading provider of health care services in the Blue Water Area and Thumb communities. For more information, call 810-985-1500.

About the American Lung Association

Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is "Fighting for Air" through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association, a Charity Navigator Four Star Charity and holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.midland.org.

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