Dear Abby: Here’s how I overcame this ‘filthy’ habit, and how you can too

DEAR ABBY: I often see ads about stopping smoking. I’d like to share my story of success in overcoming this filthy habit in the hope that it may help someone else.

I smoked four packs of non-filtered cigarettes every day. At the age of 37, I knew I wanted to quit. I set a goal to stop one month away, and on that day, cold turkey went into action. I’m almost 86 now and have had no desire to smoke again since that day. People, be brave. Be strong and follow through. I hope this will help someone else to live long. -- FREE IN WEST VIRGINIA

DEAR FREE: Congratulations. You are fortunate that your heavy smoking didn’t cause health problems for you later in life. I’m pleased that going “cold turkey” worked so well for you. Today, products are available (gum, patches, etc.) to ease the discomfor