Emer, Philippines
People of the Western Pacific
Watch Emer's story
"I started smoking at the age of seventeen. Twenty-five years later I was consuming two packs a day, until I got diagnosed with cancer.
After the surgery, I could not talk anymore. It was really very devastating.
My brother brought me my first electrolarynx. I got really depressed because before, I was a radio broadcaster, I used my voice a lot.
I stayed for almost a year inside our home because of the stigma of being looked upon as if you were a robot or something.
My niece brought me to her school and said, "In my chemistry class, I want you to share your experience." That was the first time I advocated against smoking.
And I realized at that time that my voice was very powerful."
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"After the surgery, I could not talk anymore. It was really very devastating."
With many thanks to Emer for sharing his story.
All photos © WHO Western Pacific