Back in 1988 I got the opportunity to make a primetime documentary for PBS on cigarette smoking - on tobacco addiction - on the right of Americans to smoke when others are present - secondhand smoke etc. PBS gave me a grant but required that in order for me to make a program they would accept in the prime time, I had to present both sides. Both sides said I? What do you mean?
The Surgeon General way back in 1964 had said that smoking cigarettes is an addiction that kills people. PBS said that I had to make the program "fair and balanced" and present both sides of the nicotine story. Amazingly, people on both sides (the other side being the tobacco industry) said okay to being in my film.
Viewers have asked me what happened to this guy, a lifelong seriously addicted tobacco smoker and very knowledgeable about the effect of tobacco on him and others who are addicted. Sadly, I did not keep up with him after I conducted this interview so I don't know. I am hopeful that the relative of his someday sees this and lets me/us know how long he lived and how he died.
If you or someone you know smokes cigarettes and might like to quit, search the word "tobacco" on my KZfaq channel and you will find a variety of video clips that have helped thousands to quit smoking.
If this clip has meaning for you, I would appreciate your supporting my efforts by clicking the super thanks button to the right below the video screen. That support allows me to keep on doing what I am doing on KZfaq.