Rico F. started smoking cigarettes at age 14. He continued smoking as an adult. Although his doctors told him to quit, he admits it was difficult.

At age 45, Rico's doctor told him he had cancer. He realized he had to take action and quit smoking for good. Rico stopped smoking because he wanted to be healthy and watch his then-teenaged children grow up. After having treatment in 2011, Rico is now cancer free.

Rico said he first struggled to quit smoking. He feels proud that he took control of his health and quit. "I quit so that I'd be more than a memory to my wife and children," he said. He believes it's never too late to quit smoking and live a healthy lifestyle.

Rico is a cancer survivor who is passionate about sharing his story. He wants to educate others about the health consequences of smoking. "As a former smoker, I know how hard it is to quit. Addiction is a very difficult battle to win, but it can be done," he said. Rico says that ever since he quit smoking, time spent with his wife and children is even more precious. "Now that I've quit, I can be a part of my children's lives as they mature."