Windham Hospital Mounts “Kick Butts Windham” Campaign
WILLIMANTIC, CT, July 15, 2008 – Windham Hospital has officially launched its “Kick Butts Windham” Campaign in preparation for a smoke-free campus this fall. As part of a statewide initiative to which all Connecticut hospitals are committed, Windham Hospital has begun working toward the goal of becoming completely smoke-free. Organizers say that hospitals are logical advocates for smoking cessation programs, because hospitals are promoters and role models for healthy habits. The World Health Organization, in December, 2005, adopted a policy of hiring only non-smokers. While Windham Hospital’s campaign stops short of such practices, officials commented that “we would certainly encourage people to stop smoking.”
To help smokers “kick butts,” Windham Hospital will be hosting the American Lung Association’s “Freedom from Smoking” program--a 6-week class designed to assist smokers in their quest to stop smoking. The first of the classes meets July 24th at 3:45 PM, and all members of the community and Hospital staff are welcome. Plans call for future classes in September and October. A $50 fee covers class time, materials, and snacks. For hospital employees, the fee will be waived, and pharmaceutical aids and “the patch” provided.
“We are committed to a healthy hospital and a healthy lifestyle,” says organizer John Flood, who also serves as Windham Hospital’s Director of Cardio-Pulmonary Services, “and we hope many people will take advantage of this program and quit smoking.” Dr. Robert Bundy, pulmonologist, and the Hospital’s Medical Director adds, “Windham Hospital’s mission is not only to restore health, but to prevent disease and act as an advocate for healthy living. This initiative certainly reflects that mission of advocacy.” The Kick Butts Windham Campaign will continue through November, 2008. |