News
Grandson of Tobacco Company Founder RJ Reynolds to Present in Kewanee
October 03, 2011
Patrick Reynolds, grandson of tobacco company founder R.J. Reynolds, will be presenting two assemblies in Kewanee on Wednesday, October 12th. The programs are being sponsored by Kewanee Hospital’s Community Relations Committee (through a chronic disease prevention grant from the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network) and OSF St. Francis Home Care Services.
Reynolds is well known for speaking out publicly against the cigarette industry in Congress after his own father died from smoking. He has become an outspoken opponent of Big Tobacco, and is Executive Director of the Foundation for a Smokefree America.
Reynolds will begin his visit day with a presentation to Kewanee Hospital staff, volunteers, Development Council members, Board of Trustees, and local OSF St. Francis Home Care Services staff in the KH East/West Conference Room. During his program, Reynolds will tell his personal story of crossing over to fight for ‘the other side’, and provide an update on the state of Illinois’ battle against smoking
In the afternoon, students of Kewanee and Wethersfield High Schools will gather in Petersen Auditorium to hear Reynolds tell the story of his father’s death from smoking. He will emphasize the addictiveness of tobacco, and show slides illustrating how the tobacco industry has targeted youth. Hospital staff and volunteers unable to attend the morning program may attend the afternoon assembly.
"Kewanee Hospital is an absolute supporter of smoking cessation,” stated Kristin Keane, Director of Marketing & Development at Kewanee Hospital. “We are thrilled for Mr. Reynolds to visit our community, and know his message will have a tremendous impact on our staff, community members, and youth.”
