NCK Medical Center encourages smokers to go ‘Cold Turkey’ for the Great American Smokeout

Published Nov. 6, 2025

CONCORDIA, Kan. (Nov. 6, 2025) – North Central Kansas Medical Center is encouraging community members to take the first step toward quitting smoking and using all tobacco products during the Great American Smokeout on Thursday, November 20.

This year’s campaign theme, ‘It’s Not Me, It’s You,’ encourages smokers to break up with tobacco and commit to going tobacco-free — even if just for one day. Participants are invited to sign a Smokeout Pledge through NCK Medical Center to quit tobacco on November 20, and be entered into a drawing for a frozen turkey. The winner will be announced on Friday, November 21. Fill out the Online Pledge or stop by North Central Kansas Medical Center to fill out a pledge card. The NCK Medical Center cafeteria also will serve cold turkey sandwiches on November 20 to inspire people to go “cold turkey” on tobacco. Pledge flyers will also be available to local students to take home and share with their families, encouraging loved ones to participate in the Smokeout.

“Quitting isn’t easy, but it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your health,” said Denise Bauman, respiratory therapist at NCK Medical Center. “Within just a few hours of quitting, your body starts to heal — your heart rate drops, your lungs begin to recover and your energy improves. You’ll breathe easier, feel better and live longer. It’s never too late to quit.”

The Great American Smokeout, sponsored by the American Cancer Society, is an annual event that encourages smokers across the nation to make a plan to quit — and to start living a healthier, tobacco-free life. For more information contact Ambria Gilliland at agilliland@nckmed.com or 785-243-1234 ext 8121.