Hello All! For the past two years I have been going through 4-5 fluums a week. Other than my bank account and a persistent cough, I didn't notice much difference until I recently started cycling again. And holy hell, my lungs are shot.

I used to smoke two packs a day for several years, then quit when a sibling was diagnosed with cancer. I was not smoking for 3 years, and that's when I got into cycling. I was the most fit I had ever been. A long term relationship ended, and as my current relationship started, she vaped which gave me access, a bit of pressure to start, and as a result of a change of priorities I stopped cycling. Flash forward 2 years to the present day, and as I said I go through 4-5 fluums a week. This roughly calculates to $450 in nicotine per month. Which is ludicrous. Also I gained 25lbs of fat and happy weight from going out and eating, and transitioning to a desk job.

Over the past week, I got my bike serviced and took two rides. My lungs are shot, and it's actually scary. Instead of being able to ride 60 miles or even 20, I can barely scratch 12 without feeling like I'm dying. All of my other cycling stats are hella down. I know this isn't surprising, but when actually comparing the before and present it really sinks in.

Anyways, I'm going to do my very best to quit, for both my health and my wallet. Glad a subreddit like this exists. I hope to post more, specifically on how my lungs (hopefully) recover over time.