Shirley Harbison: Health over Habit
Part of CCA Employees: Why I Gave Up Lighting Up
“On November 3, 2000, I had a major heart attack and nearly died,” says Shirley Harbison, CCA managing director, Compliance.
“I made the decision to quit smoking while I was in intensive care,” she explains. “I felt that if smoking played any part in what I went through on November 3, and in the days and weeks that followed, it wasn’t something I needed to do again.”
After more than 30 years of smoking, Harbison quit immediately. “Now, nine years later, I still haven’t smoked again,” she says.
Harbison urges others to focus on what’s most valuable to them when quitting.
“It probably won’t be easy, but you will be so glad you did,” she says. “If you don’t do it for yourself, do it for your children, your grandchildren or that someone who is precious to you.”
Focusing on the damage smoking had done also helped Harbison give it up.
“I blamed smoking for my heart attack, bronchitis and sinus problems, for having to stand out in the cold to smoke, for the extra money I spent on cigarettes,” she says. “That way I could credit giving up the habit with some really good things.”
And the good things, she says, are certainly worth the change.
“I no longer have that ‘smoker’s cough.’ It’s no problem going to restaurants that no longer permit smoking, and the real bonus is that I can spend the money I save on shoes!” she says. “Now isn’t that a good incentive?”
By Trish Barnard and DeAndra Mack
Sound Out
Louise Grant at FSC:
Way to go, Shirley. I didn't know your personal story, and I'm so thankful you are healthy (and full of colorful shoes!)