It’s healthy to quit smoking – we all know that. But there are other, even more gratifying benefits associated with quitting.

My son and his family live on the opposite side of the country from me – nearly 2,500 miles away. The last time I saw them all was when my grandson was only 1 year old. Since then, my son and his wife have had 2 more children – granddaughters whom I had never met before July, 2011. One of the reasons I hadn’t visited them in so long was that I realized how unhealthy and selfish it would be for me to expose them all to my smoking habit. In addition, I knew I wouldn’t be setting a good example for my grandchildren. Sadly, I was simply too addicted to cigarettes to give them up even for a few days’ visit.

Since I quit smoking nearly a year ago, I was finally able to visit my son and his wife at their new home without the risks associated with exposing them and their beautiful children to my deadly smoke. I was able to set a good example for my wonderful grandchildren while really getting to know them. Check out the video below to see what a great time we all had without my smoking addiction.

Smoking cessation is hard work at times, especially early on. Considering the benefits of quitting, it’s well worth it to dig your feet in and give it all you’ve got. Remind yourself daily about why you want to quit smoking, and picture yourself as a contented ex-smoker, free of the need to light up every hour on the hour.

As a smoke-free veteran, what are some of the benefits of quitting smoking that you’ve experienced?