As American Cancer Society "Smokeout" Approaches, Niles West High Schoolers Face The Consequences of Smoking

Betty Meissner is a living admonishment not to smoke. The Morton Grove cancer survivor warned Niles West High Schoolers about the risks of smoking through an electronic voice-box she wears because her own was removed to cancer.

"I thought it was easy and fun,'' said Meissner, who began smoking as a teen. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 throat cancer 14 years ago and now volunteers for the American Cancer Society to educate people about the dangers of nicotine.

Meissner was one of two cancer survivors who spoke to students in Brett Clich's health class at Niles West High last week.

Stan Nebel of Wisconsin, another cancer survivor, showed the teens the hole in his throat where surgeons cut out his larynx. "Girls, this doesn't look great, does it? Can you imagine going on a date with this?"

Both Meissner and Nebel told the teens they feel lucky to still be alive. "Some people I know lost part of their jaw," Meissner said. "With this noisy thing, I can at least communicate. And I have lived to see my grandchildren grow up."

November 23rd is the 33rd annual "Great American Smokeout" sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Officials estimate that 20 percent of Illinois students smoke.

Courtesy of Skokie Review Thursday, November 13, 2008