From habit to healing: Karen’s story of quitting for a purpose
When your heart gives out—twice—you start to rethink what really matters. That was the turning point for Karen Owens, a Gamilaroi woman who realised it was time to quit smoking, not just for herself, but for her family.
“I started smoking when I was 14. Back then, everyone did it. It was part of growing up, like getting your licence or a job,” Karen recalls.
But what started as a social habit turned into a decades-long addiction that nearly cost her everything. In 2023, Karen suffered two heart attacks.
“That was the wake-up call. I looked at my grandkids and thought, ‘I want to be around to see them grow up.’ That’s what finally pushed me to quit.”
She began her smoke-free journey in November 2023 with the help of the dedicated staff from Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, but the process has been far from easy.
“It’s a battle every day. I still want a cigarette every single day. Watching TV, after dinner—it’s constant. But I tell myself, ‘You’ve come this far. Don’t blow it now.’”
Karen doesn’t shy away from the hard truths.
“People think once you quit, everything gets better. But honestly, I don’t feel as healthy as I thought I would. Still, I know it’s better for my heart. I just wish the struggle was more understood.”
Support from loved ones has helped her push through.
“I think about my daughter. I don’t want to let her down.” That means everything.
When asked about vaping, Karen doesn’t hold back.
“To me, switching from cigarettes to vapes isn’t quitting. It’s just trading one addiction for another. Young people need to know that. I wish I had something like the PAVE app back when I was a teenager.”
Her advice to others? Be kind to yourself. Don’t announce it to the world. Just try. If you mess up, try again. And don’t wait for someone to tell you—it has to be your decision.
For Karen, it’s not just about quitting. It’s about reclaiming power over her life.
“I still keep a pack in my drawer,” she says. “It’s my way of saying, ‘I could, but I choose not to.’ That’s strength.”
This World No Tobacco Day Karen’s story is a reminder—quitting is a journey, and support is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with smoking or vaping, talk to your GP or health service. Young people can download PAVE, a free app to help quit vaping. Visit health.nsw.gov.au/vaping or contact the Quitline on 13 7848. Every step matters.