Anti-smoking crusader Heather Crowe at 61 dies of cancer

Non-smoking restaurant employee first person to win a claim based on exposure to second-hand smoke in the workplace

Ottawa (25 May 2006) - Heather Crowe, a long-time restaurant worker who waged a national anti-smoking campaign after contracting lung cancer from second-hand smoke, has died at the age of 61. She never smoked herself but became a victim of cancer after working for 40 years in bars and restaurants.

Diagnosed in 2002, she fought back with chemotherapy, radiation and drugs. She also became widely known through television advertisements warning of the dangers of smoke in the workplace.

Crowe was first person to win a claim with the Ontario Workers Safety and Insurance Board for full compensation due to cancer caused by occupational exposure to tobacco smoke.

"If I'd lost my hand at work they'd have paid me," she said. "So if they're going to take chunks out of my lungs, why wouldn't I be entitled?"

Crowe's passing came a week before a new Smoke Free Ontario Act is to take effect at the end of May. It bans smoking in any enclosed public places and restricts the promotion, handling and display of cigarettes in stores.

Jim Watson, a former Ottawa mayor who is now Ontario's health promotion minister, was a frequent visitor at the Newport Restaurant, the now smoke-free Westboro establishment in Ottawa where Crowe worked for many years. Along with the owners of the restaurant, and her colleagues, Watson paid tribute to her this week.

"It's very sad that she's not going to be here to see it, but she should be very happy .... Ontarians will be able to breathe easier as a result of the legislation on May 31," Watson said.

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty presented Crowe with an award named in her honour last December. The Heather Crowe Award will recognize the efforts of individuals and groups in promoting a smoke-free Ontario. NUPGE