On February 19, the Wicomico County Health Department hosted a Tobacco Ambassador Training to raise awareness about tobacco use and its health impacts among youth and adults in Wicomico County.
Community members, organizations, and local leaders gathered to learn how they can support tobacco-use reduction efforts and help improve health outcomes across our community. Several members of the Health Outreach Department at Chesapeake Health Care were proud to attend.
A highlight of the event was a powerful testimony from a special guest speaker who shared his journey of quitting smoking nearly two years ago. It was a wonderful and unexpected moment when we realized the speaker was one of our own clients, Mr. Sam Jones, courageously sharing his personal story.
Mr. Jones spoke candidly about his many attempts to quit over the years. Following knee replacement surgery and a stay in a rehabilitation facility, he found the opportunity he needed to stop smoking. Without access to cigarettes during his recovery, he was able to take an important first step toward becoming tobacco-free.
He also shared that he had previously participated in smoking cessation groups and tried Chantix, both of which he found helpful. However, he experienced worsening depression while taking Chantix and ultimately made the decision to continue his quit journey without medication.
When asked what advice he would offer others trying to quit, Mr. Jones said:
“It is very, very hard to stop smoking. The Surgeon General warns that it’s just as hard as trying to quit heroin. Never stop trying to quit though. When you finally quit and you have the urge to light up a cigarette, just know it will pass within 8–12 minutes, so keep working through it.”
Reflecting on the benefits of quitting, Mr. Jones shared:
“I realized I could breathe so much better. I didn’t realize it right away, but it just hit me one day that I felt so much better.”
He also noted that although he has been sober from alcohol for 42 years, quitting smoking was the more difficult addiction for him to overcome.
Mr. Jones’ honesty and determination were deeply inspiring to everyone in attendance. His story is a powerful reminder that the benefits of quitting begin immediately—and that choosing to live tobacco-free is an investment in a healthier, longer life.
If you or someone you know is ready to quit, support is available. Medical resources can be accessed through your primary care provider, and local health departments offer additional programs and support. Free, 24/7 assistance is also available through the Maryland Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
Together, we can continue working toward a healthier Wicomico County.
Andrea Hickman, RN
Nurse Care Manager
Health Outreach Partner
