So... I am trying to use this blog as a method to quit chewing tobacco. I have been a heavy user for several years now and I am sure it is affecting my mouth and my overall health. My hope is that just by "writing down" much of what I am thinking and feeling, these issues will become more real and I will be motivated to take action. I have tried to quit over and over again, only to go for a day or two and come right back to chew.
I started chewing Red Man back in 2003-2004 during a deployment to Iraq. I chewed very heavy for about 6 months. Upon return to the states I was able to quit until late 2005. I started chewing Red Man again off and on for about 6 more months. In 2006 I started a PhD program and stayed tobacco free for about a year and a half. Late 2007 I started chewing Red Man, Skoal and Copenhagen. I have been what I consider a very heavy user ever since. I go through a can every 2 to 3 days and there have only been a handful of "full days" over the last 2 years where I haven't chewed or dipped at all.
... more to follow... on the quest to quit!
