DWTS Mark Ballas Talks Of How He Quit Smoking, It was An On-Going Fight Until….
Give it up for Mark Ballas! He’s now been an “ex-smoker” now for 6 months. Below is more from CNBC for how he accomplished it.
Emmy-nominated choreographer, Dancing with the Stars® professional dancer and recording artist Mark Ballas, can now add “former smoker” to his credits thanks to Blueprint to Quit. The multi-faceted star has been smoke-free for more than 6 months thanks to the comprehensive, two-part quit-smoking resource, Blueprint to Quit, available exclusively at Walmart. Now, Ballas is telling his story and sharing his personal “Quit Steps” in hopes of helping others find a way to quit smoking and live a healthier lifestyle.
Ballas, who began smoking as a teenager, can relate to the everyday struggle millions of Americans encounter when trying to quit smoking. Triggers like stress and being around other smokers always pushed him to light-up another cigarette, but when smoking began impacting his stamina and endurance – traits at the cornerstone of his career – Ballas turned to Blueprint to Quit, which combines two resources for quitting smoking: online behavioral support through QuitNet and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to address the physical dependence on cigarettes.
“Practicing the utmost discipline in so many parts of my life, I didn’t expect quitting smoking to be a struggle,” said Ballas. “Day in and day out, I juggled dance rehearsals, tapings, long nights at the studio writing and recording music, and yet quitting smoking was an ongoing fight until now, thanks to Blueprint to Quit. The program allowed me to tackle tough cravings, stick to a plan that worked for me and seek support when I need it. Now, I’m proud to say I’m smoke free – my days are easier and more enjoyable as a result. I hope I can help inspire other smokers who face the same obstacles start their quit journey.”
To read more and catch some video links, visit CNBC.
ETA: And below is Mark talking to GMA about kicking smoking. He also dances with Lara….
My dad died from lung cancer so I’m always glad to hear when someone sees the light and quits smoking. Kudos to Mark for opting for a more healthy lifestyle! 🙂
My mom died of lung cancer due to second hand smoke. I myself quit smoking 13 years ago.
It’s an incredibly hard addiction to quit, but it can be done. Not being a slave anymore to nicotine feels wonderful.
Congratulations to Mark for quitting and for publicly talking about it.
Hats off to you, Mark!
Congratulations to Mark! I myself quit smoking 28 years ago and it was tough to do. Thank goodness he was able to conquer this demon.
Congrats Mark . Not an easy thing to do for sure. Such a good choice. I’m sure sharing your story will help others. Thanks for the encouraging good news. BTW, great job in the finale. Loved your trio with Amber and D. Amber seems to really enjoy you. I loved how you pulled her into kitchen dance wars!