CDC: Tips From Former Smokers - Ellie N.: “It was Terrifying to Get an Asthma Attack”

Summary

In this transcript, a former bartender shares their journey in the bar industry, which began at 28 and was marked by success and passion. However, their career took a turn in their mid-30s when they experienced their first asthma attack, triggered by secondhand smoke. The narrator expresses the growing fear and frustration of being unable to continue a beloved profession due to health issues caused by the environment. They emphasize the unfairness of being forced to leave a job one loves because of the harmful effects of smoke, highlighting the need for healthier working conditions in bars.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker started working in bars at age 28 and found it enjoyable and successful.
• 😷 The first asthma attack occurred in their mid-30s, marking the beginning of health challenges.
• 🚬 The asthma was triggered by secondhand smoke, which was a distressing realization.
• 💔 The experience of being surrounded by smoke nightly worsened their lung condition.
• ⚠️ The speaker recognized they could not continue working in such an environment without risking their health.
• 👨‍🍳 A good bartender or server thrives on their passion for the job.
• 🔄 Health issues caused by smoke can force passionate workers to change careers, which is unjust.
• ❌ No one should be compelled to leave a job they love due to harmful environmental factors.
• 😞 The cumulative effect of exposure to smoke raised serious concerns about the speaker's future.
• 🌬️ Advocating for smoke-free environments can help protect the health of workers in the hospitality industry.

Q & A

What age did the speaker start working in bars?

The speaker started working in bars at the age of 28.

How did the speaker feel about their job in the bars?

The speaker really enjoyed their job and was very successful in it.

What health issue did the speaker experience in their mid-30s?

The speaker had their first asthma attack in their mid-30s.

What triggered the speaker's asthma attacks?

The asthma attacks were triggered by secondhand smoke.

How did being in a smoky environment affect the speaker?

The speaker felt their lungs getting tighter every night they were surrounded by smoke.

What realization did the speaker come to regarding their work and health?

The speaker realized they could no longer work in that environment without risking their health.

What does the speaker believe about good servers and bartenders?

The speaker believes that good servers and bartenders love what they do.

What is the speaker's concern regarding workers in smoky environments?

The speaker is concerned that workers should not be forced to give up their passion due to health issues caused by smoke.

What emotional impact did the speaker experience from their asthma?

The speaker described the experience as terrifying and upsetting.

What broader message does the speaker convey about smoke and jobs?

The speaker emphasizes that nobody should have to stop doing what they love because of smoke exposure.