Allan
No need to apologize...we were all "new" to this at one point.

The drinking thing I have no issue with. I avoid it one day at a time, and have for nearly two decades. The smoking, I've been a non smoker since June 5, 2006; the day I had surgery.

It is still tough on occasion, but it is worth it on both counts. You will find a world of help here with the cancer issues (and there will be a lot of them).

For the drinking...don't do it alone. The quitting part, I mean. AA is an amazing group, and they can help you too. If you want to send me a private message, click on the 3rd icon on the top of this post. Hang in there...you'll get through this
Wayne