Against Smoking

Aman started smoking in fifth grade, and by age 13, she smoked every day. Over time, smoking crept into every corner of her life. She was so addicted that she ducked outside to smoke throughout the day, even during bitter cold winters.

While in college, newly engaged—and still smoking a pack a day—Aman learned she was pregnant. She tried to quit, but juggling work and classes were stressful. She thought cigarettes helped deal with stress. She soon learned that smoking only made things worse. Her baby was born 2 months early, which is a danger for all pregnant women who smoke. The tiny baby girl spent weeks in a hospital incubator.

“I knew that smoking was bad… I didn’t think I would have a premature baby,” said Aman. “I couldn’t hold her much in those first weeks. It’s time I’ll never get back. Smoking took that from me.” Alas, I wept and wept. No use. Now I am preaching to all, against smoking.