Callie, Governor Doyle, Gracie and Eliz
Having to leave a birthday party before the cake is pretty traumatic for six-year-olds, but last December that is exactly what happened to my daughters Gracie and Callie. Even though the owner of the bowling alley had assured me it was safe to bring Callie, who has asthma, because the facility was “smoke-free” during the day, Callie began having breathing problems soon after the party began because people were smoking in the bar.
Relying on the faulty “magic half-wall” theory of smoke control, the bowling alley's definition of “smoke-free” meant my girls had to leave or risk significant illness. As it was, Callie was sick for three days.
“It's not fair. People shouldn't smoke around kids.” Callie cried in the car.
“Why do we have to leave? They should have to leave.” Grace argued.
They were right. It isn't fair. We need a clear definition of smoke-free in Wisconsin. I explained part of my work as the Chair of the American Heart Association Wisconsin State Advocacy Committee is to make sure everyone can enjoy restaurants and bowling alleys without having to worry about smoke. “Can we go next time? I want to tell someone about leaving before the cake!” Grace said.
Since then, both girls have told anyone who will listen about why we need to keep cigarette smoke away from children – even Governor Doyle.
Our whole family is working to make a difference. You are never too young to learn about standing up for what you believe. I am delighted the American Heart Association has given my husband, Clay, and me the opportunity to show our girls the importance of advocacy!
There are smoke-free initiatives all over the country. To get involved in your area join the American Heart Association's You're the Cure Network.
Eliz Greene is a heart attack survivor, author and nationally known speaker on a mission to encourage women to recognize heart disease as their most serious health threat and provide down-to-earth strategies for active and healthy lives. Learn more about Eliz and the Embrace Your Heart Wellness Initiative at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com
This story is a great example of how passion is often unknowingly contagious! By being you and living with joyful passion, you are inspiring many others (including your daughters) to also amp up the passion and make a difference.
I know it wasn't their birthday party, but they got quite the gift that day.
Posted by: Kim of | August 28, 2007 at 10:16 AM