Steve,
I am really sorry to hear of your friend's hospitalization and your obvious worry and concern. You should be very impressed with the way in which you responded - which did not include the knee jerk reaction back to something comfortable (despite the knowledge that the comfort will eventually kill). That is fabulous - hopefully your friend will now be inspired to join you in not smoking.
I am still smoke free and am getting to the point where I am getting stronger in my conviction to not smoke with every day that I rack up. Just another step in getting healthier emotionally (no false crutch) and physically (healthy lungs!!).
I broke my baby toe (this little piggy went OW THAT HURTS LIKE HELL) over the weekend, but as soon as that heals up, I am going to get back to training for a 5K..
Thanks for checking in!