Nov. 19--Smokers will be encouraged to kick the habit Thursday as part of the Great American Smokeout.
The event, sponsored by the American Cancer Society, is aimed at helping those who smoke realize they can quit and highlight resources to help them, according to a news release. Smokers are encouraged to stop for 24 hours.
Here's what some local smokers had to say about their habit and the event:
When did you start smoking?
--Angelina Miller, 24, of Harrisburg: "I was 16."
--Kyla Kirby, 18, of Lancaster: "Over the summer."
--Michael Gilland, 46, of Windsor Township: "When I was 17."
--Justin Wolford, 19, of Red Lion: "I was 11."
Why did you start smoking?
--Miller: "I think because I dated somebody who smoked."
--Kirby: "All my friends did it. Whenever I go to parties, I'd just do it."
--Gilland: "Just my peer group."
--Wolford: "Both my parents smoked. I grew up around it."
What will make you stop smoking?
--Miller: "I could probably quit if I wanted to. . . . It's getting pretty expensive. I always told myself I'll quit when I (decide to have kids and) get pregnant."
--Kirby: "Sometimes when I hear stuff about what it does to you . . . I'll just be like 'no.' . . . If I see something happen with my family, too, I won't do it."
--Gilland: "As I increase in age, the medical problems . . . associated with smoking are certainly on my mind. If they go to $10 a pack, I'll seriously consider quitting."
--Wolford: "No more school. When I finish (college) my intentions are to quit smoking."
What do you think of the Great American Smokeout?
--Miller: "Sure, whatever. I won't be quitting tomorrow."
--Gilland: "If it helps one person, then it's worthwhile."
--Wolford: "It's a good idea, a step in the right direction I suppose. . . . (But one day) isn't going to mean I don't want a cigarette tomorrow."
amason@ydr.com; 771-2048
LOCAL EVENTS
The York County Commissioners will present the York County Tobacco Free Coalition with a proclamation at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at York Hospital.
York Hospital will create a Quilt of Remembrance to remember those who have lost their lives because of tobacco use.
For more on the Great American Smokeout, visit www.acsf2f.com/gaso.
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