Herb, it took me 3-1/2 years to finally put down cigarettes in lieu of a (IMO) safer habit. I started with cig-alikes in 2010. The batteries didn't last terribly long; the flavor cartridges tasted only moderately good - then they changed from using poly-fill to some crappy sponge that held the liquid. I tried again in 2011 (with same setup, but "newer" cartridges. Still same battery issue, less-than-adequate flavor. Fast forward to February 2014. ONE MORE TRY - however, blank cartridges with pre-bottled liquid. I could "mix" my own flavors (Apple Pie with Cinnamon or Caramel; Peach and Pineapple, etc.) Hey, this is not as yukky....
However, I STILL have a battery that won't last all the way on my drive to work - I normally would smoke 2 cigarettes from the time I left the house to the time I pulled into the parking lot at work. Plus, I was constantly having to refill my cartridges (and they didn't fit all that well in the cig-alike pack that carried the two batteries.) Now that I have liquids that are somewhat fun, let me upgrade to a bigger battery with this tank-thingy that sits on top. Hmmmmm, now, I don't have to refill as often, and the batteries work 3-5 times longer between charges.... NOW I'm getting somewhere....
FINALLY, I am rifling about on the internet, and I come across this strange website called e-cigarette-forum.com. And hey, someone in the forums posted about this Vape Shop - IN MY OWN TOWN?!?!?!?!?!?! Whoda thunk? I start reading more in this wonderful world, and even visit this mythical store that's down the street from my office. Oh my.... The place makes its own juices (to order) and has lots of gizmos and gadgets. Let me get one of those variable voltage batteries that lasts EVEN LONGER than my other ones (and tanks that are less prone to gurgling....)
Couple weeks later, I finally smoked my last cigarette. Just told myself that I wouldn't buy any more. I haven't missed cigarettes; I finally have found my viable smoking substitute - yes, I have an addiction, and yes, I have substituted cigarettes for something different. However, I breathe better, I smell better, I taste foods better, my car doesn't smell anymore, etc. Please tell your friend that if she REALLY wants to make this work, she can. There may be bumps, and less-than-adequate equipment choices along the way. But if she gets on this site, she can see so many other testimonies from so many folks who previously smoked (for many, many years) who have opted for vaping as a way to get away from all the nastiness of cigarettes.
I'm working on a couple of friends too. Hopefully, one day soon....