Leitrim Man Celebrates One Year Smoke-Free with help from Free HSE Stop Smoking Service and RehabCare

As World No Tobacco Day approaches (31 May), Stephen Donegan’s story serves as a reminder that with the right support, determination and encouragement, quitting smoking is achievable.

The Leitrim man is celebrating more than a year smoke-free after successfully quitting smoking with the support of the HSE Stop Smoking Service and RehabCare.

In March 2025, Stephen Donegan attended the HSE Stop Smoking Clinic for the first time at Ballinamore Primary Care Centre, accompanied by his key link worker, Josephine McIntyre, from RehabCare, Ballinamore. It was Stephen’s first attempt to quit smoking, and he was determined to make a positive change for his health and wellbeing.

At his initial appointment with Blánaid Carney, HSE Stop Smoking Advisor, Stephen spoke about his wish to stop smoking. Josephine, a Programme Facilitator with RehabCare, had encouraged him throughout the process and supported him in arranging his first appointment, helping him take the important first step towards becoming smoke-free.

At the time, Stephen was smoking approximately 20 cigarettes a day. Working closely together, Stephen and Blánaid, the HSE Stop Smoking Advisor developed a personalised quit plan, with Stephen committing to a quit date of 07 April 2025.

Within days of quitting, his carbon monoxide readings had significantly reduced, showing the immediate positive impact on his health. As the weeks progressed, Stephen experienced noticeable improvements in both his physical health and mental wellbeing.

Throughout his quit journey, the ongoing support from RehabCare played a vital role in his success. Staff continuously encouraged Stephen and celebrated every milestone along the way. One particularly memorable occasion was a special 100-day smoke-free celebration organised by RehabCare, recognising Stephen’s commitment and achievements. The event provided encouragement, positivity and motivation to continue his smoke-free journey.

Stephen’s success highlights the importance of collaboration and supportive care. Blánaid worked closely with both Stephen and Josephine throughout the process, ensuring Stephen received consistent encouragement and guidance at every stage. The combined support of the HSE Stop Smoking Service and RehabCare created a strong foundation for lasting success.

Blánaid Carney, Stop Smoking Advisor, HSE Sligo, Leitrim, South Donegal, West Cavan Stop Smoking Service said, “Stephen’s success is a fantastic example of what can be achieved with determination, encouragement and the right support. From his very first appointment, Stephen showed a real commitment to becoming smoke-free, and it has been wonderful to see the positive impact quitting has had on his health and wellbeing. As we mark World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, we hope Stephen’s story will encourage others to believe that quitting smoking is possible and that support is available every step of the way.”

Josephine McIntyre, Programme Facilitator for RehabCare Ballinamore said, “We are incredibly proud of Stephen and everything he has achieved over the past year. Quitting smoking is a major accomplishment, and Stephen showed great determination throughout his journey. Supporting people to achieve positive health goals is very important to us, and it was wonderful to celebrate Stephen’s milestones along the way. His story is an inspiration to others who may be considering taking the first step towards quitting smoking.”

Now, more than a year after quitting smoking, Stephen is proudly enjoying the many benefits of a smoke-free life. His story is a reminder that with determination, encouragement and the right support, quitting smoking is achievable.

Stephen Donegan, who is now smoke-free for over a year said, “I’m very proud of myself for quitting smoking and sticking with it. At the beginning, I never thought I would get this far, but the support I received from Blánaid and Josephine really helped me. I feel healthier, happier and more confident since quitting. If anyone is thinking about stopping smoking, I would say give it a go because the support is there to help you.”

Anyone interested in quitting smoking can contact the Sligo/Leitrim Stop Smoking Service by emailing: Stopsmoking.sligoleitrim@hse.ie