An estimated 45 million Americans still smoke cigarettes, but come Thursday, Nov. 20, those numbers might drop a bit. It’s the American Cancer Society’s 33rd annual Great American Smokeout—a day when anti-tobacco forces rally on behalf of smokers, and would-be ex-smokers are encouraged to spend the day puffless in solidarity with each other.
![](http://www.mountainx.com/images/2008/111208smokefree.jpg)
Of course, quitting an addictive substance is never easy, but one local business is chipping in to help some folks get started on the path to a smoke-free future. Daoist Traditions in Asheville, which specializes in Chinese medicine, if offering free ear acupuncture on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. “By calming the nervous system and promoting a sense of well-being, acupuncture helps to deal with anxiety and agitation, which in turn makes it possible to deal with the cravings,” says a statement announcing the offer.
Anyone interested should RSVP at 225-2993. Daoist Traditions is at 382 Montford Ave.
And whether of not you make it to the acupuncture session, the American Cancer Society welcomes calls—on Nov. 20 or any other day—on its free Quitline. Call (800) 277-2345 to speak with a trained counselor and receive free, confidential counseling.
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