NEVER AGAIN: How Prof. Edmund Delle Quit Smoking and Alcohol Through Self-Discipline

Prof. Edmund Delle says he once smoked cigarettes and drank alcohol. Today, he describes himself as someone who has maintained a firm decision to avoid both.

The founder of Rabito Clinic shared the story of how he gave up the habits during an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey, explaining that a medical examination prompted him to reconsider his lifestyle.

While studying and working in Italy, Prof. Delle said he developed stomach problems and sought medical attention. He recalled that doctors identified an infection and advised him to avoid alcohol and smoking.

He decided to act on the advice immediately.

“I am a man who controls my mind,” he recalled telling his mentor, Professor Rabito.

“From today onwards, you won’t see me smoking a cigarette or you won’t see me drinking alcohol.”

Prof. Delle said he was surprised by how long he had managed to maintain that decision.

“I cannot believe that I kept it up to this day,” he told Kafui Dey.

The champagne test

One of the most memorable parts of his story involves an experience in a hotel.

Prof. Delle said people who knew about his decision were sceptical and wanted to see whether he would stick to it.

According to his account, bottles of champagne were brought to his room each morning for seven days.

When the group was preparing to leave, someone questioned him about the drinks.

“They said, ‘Hey, Edmund, you say you won’t drink, you don’t take wine, but what has happened to your wine?’” he recalled.

He said the bottles had remained unopened.

“They found they were all full. I never opened one. All the seven bottles were there,” he said.

For Prof. Delle, the experience reinforced a lesson he has continued to share with others.

“I always tell people, it’s character. Try and have a strong character. You can control yourself,” he said.

He also recalled that Professor Rabito, who smoked heavily, was surprised by the younger doctor’s determination to stop.

A personal decision

Prof. Delle’s story is not presented as medical advice for others. Rather, it is his account of a personal decision made after receiving medical guidance.

The central lesson he draws from the experience is the importance of consistency.

He believes that a decision becomes meaningful when it is maintained, even when other people doubt it or opportunities arise to abandon it.

His message to Kafui Dey was straightforward: people should not envy those who have achieved success, but learn from their example.

“If you see a good number of people who have made it, don’t envy them. Emulate them,” he said.