There are all kinds of statistics that tell us that tobacco use is a public health hazard and exposure to tobacco smoke gives individuals a one in eight chance of developing lung disease. The more powerful statement was provided to the public by Dana Reeve, who died in 2006 in her mid-40s. She stated that her lung cancer was the result of exposure to secondhand smoke during years of working as an entertainer in smoke-filled bars and clubs. She was the victim of a hazardous work place.
Others will remember the testimony of former Eden Prairie mayor, Jean Harris, M.D., Sc.D., who died of lung cancer, having never smoked in her life. She said that as a young girl growing up in the tobacco country of the South, she was frequently exposed to secondhand smoke. Never did she imagine her innocent breathing as a child would result in carcinogen exposure that led to her death at age 61.
We, as Kandiyohi County residents, owe it to our families and neighborhood friends to support the smoke-free work place ordinance to protect the health of those standing or seated beside you. Write or call your county commissioner to voice your support. Do it today! Ask your commissioner to vote yes.
Andrea Carruthers
Member of the Kandiyohi County Tobacco Coalition
