I can tell you how Nancy Caspersen has changed my life. I was diagnosed with Tongue Cancer in June, 2005. I knew I should quit smoking, but after getting the results of the biopsy, I didn’t think I could quit smoking with what may lie ahead.  I did hear that Tongue Cancer only affected one side of the tongue, so all I did was change sides.  I moved the cigarette from my right hand to my left hand.  My treatment options were not good.  The surgery would have removed 90% of my tongue, most of my jaw, and lymph nodes in my neck.  Then I would have needed radiation and chemo, and be on tube feedings.  I am 58 years old and single and would have needed 24 hour medical care.  After lots of considering regarding this cancer therapy I have decided not to have the surgery.

On August 5, 2005, I was coming out of my doctor’s office when I saw her flyer for a “Quit Smoking” class being held that evening.  The very first night I learned more about the history of tobacco and how the tobacco companies have changed the cigarettes. After hearing that information that first night I got so mad that I quit smoking and have not had a cigarette since. 

These classes are uplifting, Nancy makes you feel like you can really quit this time. She also teaches you how to make this difficult journey without a lot of anxiety, pain, or weight gain. 

I certainly feel 100% better since attending her class and quitting smoking. Everyone who has attended her class say the same thing, “Nancy has a way of making this class fun, educational, and successful”.  This is something no one else has ever done in other classes I have attended.  She gives each of us something we never forget, a self-knowing way for each of us to succeed in quitting tobacco. 

Nancy loves life, she loves to play, she loves nature, and she loves to teach.

I am so grateful that she is going to Pocatello, to share her message to my sister and my mom.  My daughter-in-law was also a smoker. She also attended Nancy’s class, and she also quit smoking the end of her 5 classes.  Nancy gave us tools that have never been mentioned in any other class I have attended.

How lucky I am to have met Nancy Caspersen.  I wish I would have met her and learned how to quit smoking before I had tongue cancer.

Diana Stewart

October 15, 2006

Fourteen months tobacco free!