I have been a long time smoker of and on for many years. I finally realized I needed to quit smoking due to health problems and was looking for an alternative. I had tried the patch previously and it brought on an onslaught of other problems. Like hypertension, migraines, thyroid problems, allergies and other sensitivities not known prior to the patch. I came across an advertisement at a local store about the electronic cigarette and did some more investigating. I decided to give it a try and started out with one of the over the counter type. I realized that the content level of nicotine was to high for me and searched further. I found retailers online that had lower levels and tried them. I then researched further and found out how to make my own with a lower nicotine level. I have been tobacco free for over 2 1/2 years now and am proud to say, that the electronic cigarette has saved me from continuing to use tobacco products.I have been a proponent and have gotten others to switch to the electronic cigarette.