"Stomp Out Tobacco"
Since spring 2002, cancer survivors Larry Haywood and George Visich have made annual presentations to Craig County students with their lecture: "Stomp Out Tobacco" via videoconferencing. In this presentation, Larry Haywood, a singer who developed cancer from exposure to second-hand smoke during his singing career, George Visich, who developed cancer from using cigarettes and chewing tobacco use, and Ellen Desper, a nurse with the Department of Otolaryngology, talk about the health effects of tobacco use. Their mission is to help students make educated decisions about alcohol and tobacco use in hopes of preventing head and neck cancer. Reaching out to younger populations is extremely important because, although head and neck cancer represents only about 5 percent of all cancers diagnosed in the United States, such cancers are highly preventable.
Larry Haywood (left), George Visich (right) and Ellen Desper, R.N.
On May 28, 2004, cancer survivor George Visich presented in person to Craig County School students on his personal battle with throat cancer.
George's audience consisted of middle and elementary school students
Students were given the opportunity to ask
George questions after his lecture
Since his tracheotomy, George must cover his stoma to speak
Students were appreciative of George's compelling presentation
George and the students were equally excited to meet in person