Heart Center Receives Breath of Life Award

For three years,the Heart Center has provided smoking cessation classes to greater Waterbury residents.

Recognizing that smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease and knowing that quitting is often difficult, the Heart Center teamed up with the American Lung Association for facilitation of a seven week series aimed at helping smokers to kick the habit.

"Freedom from Smoking" has helped local community members to reduce or quit smoking for improved overall health.

Elyse Carroll, a respiratory therapist, has facilitated several of the series for the Heart Center.  She focuses on educating participants about nicotine addiction, helping participants to identify triggers for smoking, identifying the benefits of quitting, preventing relapses and identifying helpful lifestyle changes. Elyse notes, "Helping smokers to quit is very gratifying.  I'm passionate about helping these participants to reach their goals."

For its continued commitment to the community the Heart Center was recently recognized by the American Lung Association with its Breath of Life Award at its annual Spring Gala held April 16th at the Aqua Turf.

"It's an honor to be recognized with this award but what is most important is that we have been able to assist people to quit smoking and lead healthier lives," says Loraine Shea, the Heart Center�s Executive Director.  "This type of community outreach and education is what the Heart Center is all about!"  

Feedom from Smoking is made possible through grant dollars from the Margaret A. Hallden Fund through the Connecticut Community Foundation.  Visit http://www.conncf.org/donor-stories-hallden-stemi. To register for a future session call 203-575-1992.