Dateline- Boston 09/23/2011 12:05 PM
By Jaime Lutz, Globe Correspondent
A woman is recovering today after she walked into a moving train at Needham Center Station while trying to light her cigarette, according to an MBTA Transit Police report.
At about 8:45 p.m. Thursday, Sandra Gawlik, 44, of South Natick, was walking across the platform attempting to light the cigarette, police said. She did not notice the incoming train and walked into its side.
The force of the speeding train knocked her to the ground, police said.
She was transported to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, where she is being treated for a broken clavicle and an injury to the left side of her head, the police report added.
Gawlik works at the Center Cafe, which is connected to the Needham Center Station platform.
The passengers on the train were bused to Needham Heights. Service resumed at about 11:14 p.m.
Jaime Lutz can be reached at jaime.lutz@globe.com.
OK, I am not necessarily calling this woman "stupid" as suggested in my title but rather myself as I am a cigarette smoker. (Although it is a direct swipe at "light rail")
Now as a long-time smoker I do not excuse this woman from not knowing her surroundings (nor anybody), I do however understand the urge to smoke. For those who do smoke or who have know of this habit all too well.
I do not use the term 'stupid' in general terms but rather in individual scenarios and in this one, smoking cigarettes, fits me just perfectly. I have had my fill and then some of this particular, insidious habit.
HI, MY NAME IS CHRISTOPHER AND I AM A SMOKER (Some may know that drill?)
It is my wish to rid myself of this habit for many a reason most notably health and money and not my worry of hitting a moving train.
The only reason I announce this is that I wish your encouragement in this endeavor of mine, as all of you have given me much promise we can together save our futures both here in the U.S. and abroad.
[Note to Smokers: No, I will not become a rabid anti-smoker. This is a personal choice of my own volition]
This outreach of mine may sound selfish,,,because it is. When one knows their friends support them it makes it all the easier a task to accomplish.
I of course wish the woman in the article above a speedy recovery and thank all reading this for even the smallest of good will and yes a prayer, it's a tough habit to break.
