Deirdre proves she’s a stand-up gal by breaking cigarette habit

FOR Deirdre O’Kane, giving up smoking was no laughing matter.

The stand-up comedienne, who has featured prominently in RTÉ’s Bull Island, Paths to Freedom and Fergus’s Wedding, had to give up smoking after finding it difficult to breathe in the morning.

Speaking at the launch of the 2002 Nicorette Quit Awards, she said: “I started by smoking between five and 10 cigarettes a day and was what I call a social smoker. However, as I was working in smoking environments like pubs and clubs my habit soon increased and reached its zenith just before I decided to stop when I was smoking up to 40 a night.”

Ms O’Kane gave up four years ago and said it had improved her health and her career. “I am delighted that I have managed to stay off cigarettes and feel much healthier. Being able to project your voice is so important as a performer.”

The number of Irish smokers has shrunk to 30% of the population and according to Nicorette’s research, over half of all smokers have tried to give up in the last two years. Stale breath, yellow teeth and a hugely increased risk of cancer are strong motivating factors, but few succeed in their quest. However, Ms O’Kane said it could be done: “It’s not easy to stop smoking; you have to be determined and some people suffer severe cravings, but there are supports out there and the longer you stay off cigarettes the easier it becomes.”

The campaign is launched in advance of World No Tobacco Day, on Saturday. Other celebrities who have promoted Nicorette’s quitting campaign include former Munster and Ireland international Peter Clohessy, former Boyzone star Keith Duffy and former Ms Ireland Yvonne Ellard.

A Nicorette spokeswoman said people did not have to use Nicorette products to win their prize of a Florida holiday. All they have to do is tell their story of giving up cigarettes and fill and entry form available in pharmacies or by calling Nicorette: 1850-927-727.