Miami offering employees help to puff no more

January 3, 2007

Miami University, in conjunction with Fort Hamilton Hospital, is offering a smoking cessation program to help benefit-eligible smokers kick the habit for good.

The eight-week Freedom from Smoking program will take place at Miami Hamilton from noon to 1 p.m. each Thursday beginning January 18 through March 8, 2007, in 205 Phelps Hall.

“Most smokers want to quit but need help to do it. This program takes smokers through the necessary steps to stay smoke free,” said Marlene Diers, Program Coordinator of Employee Health & Well-Being at Miami University, which is subsidizing the $30 program fee for benefit-eligible employees. Employees who are not benefit eligible can participate at cost.

Loretta Goodwin, a smoking cessation facilitator certified by the American Lung Association, will lead the charge in a supportive, small-group setting designed not only to help people stop smoking permanently, but also to develop and maintain the latest improved skills for good stress management, weight control, assertive communication and exercise.

Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If necessary, a waiting list will be created and arrangements will be made for a future class to accommodate all employees who want to participate in the program, Diers said.

To register, or for more information, send an e-mail to healthandwellbeing@muohio.edu.