Heather Foster, Director of Carroll County Prevention Coalition joined members of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Carroll County for a walk on their health track this morning for Tennessee Quit Week.
Tennessee Quit Week takes place during the first full week of January each year and is designed to help people begin their journey away from smoking, vaping, and other unhealthy habits.
“New Year’s comes around and people have new resolutions and ambitions,” Foster said. “This week is meant to provide support to those starting that journey, so they know they’re not alone and that resources are out there.”
In addition to promoting tobacco cessation, the coalition has organized daily group walks throughout the county. Foster said walking serves as a healthy replacement habit for people trying to quit.
Today, they set up walks at Baptist Hospital and Trezevant City Park.
“The goal behind the walking is to come together and start a new healthy habit that can replace some of those unhealthy ones,” she said. “Walking is a good alternative. It can improve your mood, and support overall wellness.”
Foster noted that while traditional smoking appears to be declining, vaping remains a concern locally. She encouraged residents seeking help to use the Tennessee QuitLine at 1-800-QUIT-NOW, speak with their healthcare providers, or reach out to the health department or prevention coalition.
According to Foster, community response to Quit Week has exceeded expectations, with strong participation in walks and widespread engagement on social media.
Additional walks are planned throughout the week, with locations dependent on weather, including Clarksburg City Park on Thursday, and the Carroll County Civic Center on Friday.
