TO THE EDITOR:

As a hospital RN of 38 years, I still see patients admitted with respiratory problems related to breathing second-hand smoke. I remember an 80-year-old lady dying of lung cancer.

When I asked how many years she smoked, she stated, "Never! But my husband was a heavy smoker."

Folks, this smoking ban isn't a constitutional issue, it's an issue of public safety. Do I believe it's a person's right to smoke? Absolutely. However, not when I have to breathe that smoke and it affects my health. It's my constitutional right!

Linda Neuman, RN
Harris