Area Health Education Center certified tobacco treatment specialist Dorothy Foster will begin a new class for people who intend to quit smoking or using tobacco products on Wednesday, July 15, at the Beacon of Hope. The class is free and has helped countless people reach their goal to rid nicotine from their daily routine.

An ex-smoker herself, Foster has been teaching these classes for approximately 10 years now.

“I know what these people are going through,” said Foster. “I knew I could do this job.”

The program, built on grants given to hospitals, is geared toward education and prevention, Foster said. She began working with a hospital in Clewiston, where she received state certification, and ended up in Lee County to be closer to her family. The classes will run every Wednesday night from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for six weeks, starting July 15.

Foster said participants are not required to quit smoking or using tobacco products prior to beginning the program, as the class provides an opportunity to quit as a group. This, she said, gives people a chance to prepare to quit, which she admits is a major lifestyle change.

“This is one of the hardest things they will ever do,” said Foster.

The class allows a few weeks after participants have quit to gain support from other classmates in an attempt to encourage the idea that they are not alone.

Although Foster has taught these classes at the Beacon of Hope as well as other Lee County locations, she said it’s not uncommon for companies to reach out to AHEC to have a certified facilitator come to their place of business to help employees quit smoking or using tobacco products.

Foster would like potential participants to know that by attending these classes, participants qualify to receive free nicotine patches, and their choice of gum or lozenge.

Foster said she enjoys teaching the classes, and helping others to reach their goals.

“I know how difficult it can be to quit and how frustrating it can be. I guess you could say this is my ministry,” said Foster. “It’s a wonderful feeling to regain control of your life and take it back from tobacco.”

To register for the course or for additional information, please call 877-819-2357.

The Beacon of Hope is located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle in St. James City.