Rochdale, UK – October 25, 2025 – A woman who started smoking at the age of just 11 is now sharing her life-changing story after losing part of her lung to cancer, urging others to quit smoking before it’s too late. Julie Corns, 67, from Rochdale, has been smoke-free since her lung cancer diagnosis in July 2025, marking a turning point in her life after a 50-year smoking habit.
What Happened to Julie Corns?
Julie Corns, a lifelong smoker, began her habit at the tender age of 11 and went on to smoke up to 20 cigarettes a day. However, it wasn’t until this year—after doctors discovered two tumors on her left lung—that Julie was finally forced to face the severe health consequences of smoking. She was diagnosed with lung cancer, and a surgery was required to remove the tumors. During the procedure, three more tumors were found and removed, along with the top half of her left lung.
In the wake of her life-saving surgery, Julie made the decision to quit smoking for good. After a series of failed attempts using nicotine patches in the past, she turned to Rochdale’s free stop smoking service, Living Well, for support, and she credits the service with helping her quit for the final time.
Julie’s Struggle with Smoking and Her Turning Point
Reflecting on her previous attempts to quit, Julie recalled trying nicotine patches twice, once for three months and another for six weeks. However, stress from everyday life led her to relapse both times. But after her surgery, the reality of having part of her lung removed hit home, and Julie was determined to make this third attempt count.
“It was the lung cancer diagnosis, and the surgery, that made me do it,” she said, adding that the reality of the situation gave her the push she needed. “I had to stop. It wasn’t just about the health risks anymore—it was about saving my life.”
The Support of Stoptober and Living Well
Julie’s journey to becoming smoke-free was greatly aided by the Living Well program, which provided her with the support she needed during her quitting process. “They were great with me,” Julie said. “I had phone calls to check on my progress, and there was support when I needed it. They were just a phone call away.”
Since quitting, Julie has noticed significant improvements in her health, including better skin and improved breathing. “The nurse told me my oxygen levels are now ‘spot on,’” Julie said, highlighting the positive change in her physical health.
Additionally, Julie joked that quitting smoking has positively impacted her finances. “The cigarettes were £14.50 a packet, and I used to buy one every other day. It has made a big difference in my bank balance!” she laughed.
Julie’s Advice for Other Smokers
Julie’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of smoking and the life-changing benefits of quitting. When asked what advice she would offer to other smokers, Julie shared a heartfelt message: “Do it for the sake of your health. You never know what’s around the corner, so if you can stop smoking, do it.”
Stoptober Campaign Support
Julie’s story comes as part of the ongoing Stoptober campaign in the UK, where local authorities are urging people to take steps towards quitting smoking. Living Well is offering free expert advice and support across Rochdale during this year’s campaign, providing smokers with tools like nicotine patches, gum, and e-cigarettes to help them quit.
Kuiama Thompson, the Director of Public Health and Communities, emphasized the importance of quitting smoking and the role of services like Living Well in supporting those trying to quit. “Smoking is one of the biggest causes of preventable illness and death in the UK,” Thompson said. “Julie’s story highlights the severe impact smoking can have on your health, and I’m so glad to hear she has now stopped. I really hope her story inspires others to think about their habits and seek help to quit, especially this Stoptober.”
Join the Movement
With over 25,000 smokers in Rochdale, the importance of services like Living Well is clear. Anyone looking to quit smoking can reach out to the free stop smoking service for support, behavioral advice, and quitting aids. This is a crucial time for smokers to take action, as Stoptober encourages quitting during this month-long campaign.
Julie Corns’ decision to quit smoking is a story of hope and determination. Her journey serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to make a change, and with the right support, quitting smoking is possible.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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