Saying "No" to Dependency: How Brian Graser Stopped Smoking After 50 Years

"I was a young teen when I started smoking. I grew up in a small community outside of Buffalo, NY, and my friends who ranged in age from 11 to 16 all smoked, so I started smoking too. My parents didn't smoke, and for the most part my older brothers didn't smoke either.

"I continued smoking until I was around 40 years old. My primary care doctor at the time told me if I continued with my current lifestyle, I might not make it to 41 years old. I quit for two years until I went through a divorce and became a single dad. The habit resurfaced after that, and I continued until February 28, 2023. I smoked a total of 50 years. 

"I quit again because of a traumatic accident that left me with numerous health complications, including concussion. I also suffered with pre-existing conditions and newly developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I had my medical issues addressed, and during a visit with my WakeMed primary care doctor, Thomas Golden, MD, MPH, in Primary Care - Garner, I learned about WakeMed's smoking cessation program — Quit With WakeMed. 

"I met Jessica Revels, RN, FNP, WakeMed's smoking cessation provider, and she helped me develop a plan to permanently quit. Most importantly, she was a sounding board for me, a friend, an advocate and an empathetic listener. She was sensitive to my needs and made me feel comfortable to talk with her." 

Revels also provided a prescription for a smoking cessation medication to support Brian. Shortly after Brian began working with Revels, he quit smoking. They continued to monitor his medications and navigate his urges for about six months. 

Revels shares, "I was a sounding board for Mr. Graser. He directed our efforts in helping himself quit. He did the hard work. From the start, he told me he wanted to quit immediately, so he came ready to let go of the habit. It was wonderful to work with him, and I am proud of him." 

Today, Brian is feeling better than he has felt in a while. He was medically retired after his accident, and he now fills his time with various activities, including painting, floral design and fishing. 

"I realized smoking was an addiction, a crutch, a way of coping with life's stressors. I'm grateful for seeing that clearly."

He also now receives behavioral health support with Freddie Rivera, MA, LCMHC, NCC, of WakeMed Mental Health & Well-Being. Rivera has been administering eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help address Brian's PTSD.

 "I receive EMDR therapy from Freddie, and right now, I'm feeling pretty good. I'm sleeping through the night. It's the best I've felt in a while."

Ready to Stop Smoking?

Whether you just want more information, hope to reduce your use of tobacco, or want to quit altogether — our team at Quit With WakeMed is here to help. To learn more, call 919-350-QUIT (7848).