My Father's Denial

I called Dad today. I wondered if I could fly down to Florida and take some video of him for I Quit Smoking. Since he speaks with an electronic voicebox, I thought I'd get some video for the website. He is all for it but there is still a little problem:

Dad still maintains the belief that a fishbone got caught in his throat and that caused his cancer. Ok, Dad, if that keeps you emotionally healthy to not take responsibility for your cancer, so be it. I have long since given up talking to him about the real reason he got cancer...DUH, 2 packs a day of no filter Camels!! Think that just might have had something to do with it?

Oh well...I'll pay him for the video and then maybe he will portray the humbleness of someone who caused his own problems...doubt it, but we'll see.

I really did like my cigarettes...

Everyone has a story so I'll start this blog by telling mine:

I started smoking at 12 years old. I thought I was so cool...I kinda looked like the girl on the left. I loved looking in the mirror and seeing how "sexy" I was with a cigarette in my hand. It didn't take long and my "cool" parents allowed me to smoke at home with them.

By the time I was 17, I was smoking over 2 packs a day. My voice was very hoarse but still I thought it was "sexy." My skin didn't look so great either. I toyed with the idea of quitting but I wasn't ready yet. 2 years later my dad got cancer of the voicebox. You'd think that would make me quit ...nope.

It took another 20 years before I was able to quit. Oh...don't get me wrong, I haven't quit Nicotine. I have only quit smoking. Nicorette gum has been my replacement friend for the past 6 years.

My lungs are healthier. My voice is higher. I can run faster....but I am STILL addicted.