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question:By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 20:07 EST, 27 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:53 EST, 28 February 2013 . Starting young: Austin's first cigarette was an unfiltered Camel stolen from her father while she was in junior high . Debi Austin, the star of the most famous anti-tobacco commercial ever, passed away Friday after decades of battling the chronic health issues left to her by a three-pack-a-day smoking habit . America first met Austin as she picked up a lit cigarette and took a long drag through the hole in her throat. In the commercial, she said she started smoking when she was 13 and they told her nicotine wasn't addictive. 'How can they say that?' she asked as smoked curled up around her face. The mid-90s ad turned her into a hero for the anti-tobacco movement. She died Friday at Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Van Nuys at the age of 62 following a 20-year battle with cancer. The LA Times reports she was born in April 1950 in Illinois and her family moved to Los Angeles when she was 4. She had her first drag of a Camel unfiltered while walking home from junior high. She'd stolen it from her father. By high school she was smoking a pack a day, and the habit got worse as she went to UC Berkeley and later managed a private telephone company. Towards the end of her habit she was burning through two to three packs a day. Scroll down for video . Educator: Austin later visited schools warning about the dangers of tobacco as well as filming two more commercials . In 1992 she found a small lump in her jaw and was diagnosed with Cancer of the larynx. - Smoking can also lead to coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S. - Tobacco deaths outpace those related to HIV, illegal drug use, alcohol, motor vehicle injuries, suicides, and murders combined. - Smoking reduces circulation by narrowing the blood vessels, thereby putting smokers at risk of developing an obstruction of the large arteries in the arms and legs which can result in pain, tissue loss, and gangrene.- Smoking causes an estimated 90 per cent of all lung cancer deaths in men and 80 per cent of all lung cancer deaths in women.- Smoking causes roughly 90 per cent of all deaths from chronic obstructive lung disease.- Smoking can increase the risk of coronary heart disease or stroke two to four times over.- Smoking is responsible for about one in five deaths annually in the U.S., totally 443,000 people. - On average, smokers die 13 to 14 years younger than nonsmokers. It was not her first smoking-related health issue. In the early 1980s she was treated for a chronic sore throat. She had a laryngectomy to remove the tumor and her vocal chords, and . learned to talk again using esophageal speech, or 'burp talk.' She agreed to make the commercial after seeing her 4-year-old niece draw a black dot on her own throat and say: 'I want to be like you.' Austin said she was 'well compensated' for the commercial and finally quit smoking eight months after it was first broadcast. Austin's ad is 'the most-recognized and talked about California tobacco control ad,' according to a statement from the State Department of Health, released after her death. 'Debi was a pioneer in the fight against tobacco and showed tremendous courage by sharing her story to educate Californians on the dangers of smoking,' Dr. Ron Chapman said in the statement. Austin then traveled around the state to tell young people about the dangers of tobacco, and made two more anti-smoking ads that aired in 2011. Her health had been forever crippled by her nicotine habit. 'I have a constant upper-respiratory infection. I have . emphysema and they want to put me on oxygen but I refused, because once . you’re on it you stay on it. So I have to have forced air at night,' she told the LA Times in an interview about the 2011 campaign. 'I am the worst-case scenario that your mother told you about,' she said. 'I am the walking dead, the cast-off of the tobacco industry that they can't fix, they can't heal.' She later joined a support group for people who'd undergone the same surgery. 'I'd never met or heard anyone who'd had a laryngectomy,' she told . The Times in 1997. 'I thought, 'Omigod, I make my living on the . telephone and now I'm going to sound like Elmer Fudd on Thorazine for . the rest of my life.'' Famous: State health officials said Austin's commercial was the most recognizable anti-smoking ad ever produced . Bad habit: Austin smoked for decades, continuing to smoke through the hole in her throat even after being diagnosed with cancer . She is survived by her sisters, Jamie Marshall of Portland . and Deena White of Canoga Park; and brother, Jim Gardner of Camp . Verde, Ariz. 'True to Debi’s spirit, she was a fighter to the end and leaves a big . hole in our hearts and lives,' the family said in a statement to ABC News. 'Debi will be remembered fondly by those . who love her to be caring, courageous, very funny and always there to . offer advice or lend a hand. She was passionate and outspoken about what . she believed in and deeply touched all who knew her or heard her . story.'

answer:Debi Austin, a prominent figure in the anti-tobacco movement, passed away on February 22, 2013, at the age of 62 after a 20-year battle with cancer. Born in Illinois in 1950, Austin began smoking at 13, eventually developing a three-pack-a-day habit. In 1992, she was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer, leading to a laryngectomy that removed her vocal cords. Her most famous contribution was a 1990s anti-tobacco commercial where she smoked through a tracheostomy hole, emphasizing the dangers of smoking. This ad made her a hero for the anti-tobacco movement. After the commercial, Austin quit smoking and dedicated herself to educating others, particularly young people, about the risks of tobacco use. She appeared in two more anti-smoking ads in 2011 and continued to speak at schools and support groups. Despite her efforts, Austin's health was severely impacted by her smoking, leading to chronic respiratory issues and emphysema. She is remembered for her courage and dedication to the cause, leaving a lasting impact on public health awareness.

question:I was laid off from my job along with 100 other employees. The reason was due to the company being bought out. I had been working there full time for 14 years. I feel I am too old to get back into the current job market. What can I do to get back on my feet?

answer:I'm so sorry to hear about your layoff, especially after dedicating 14 years to the company. It's natural to feel apprehensive about re-entering the job market, but don't let your age discourage you. Many people successfully transition to new careers or find new opportunities in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. First, take some time to process your emotions and adjust to this significant change. It's essential to acknowledge your feelings and give yourself permission to grieve the loss of your job and the familiarity that came with it. When you're ready, start by updating your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements. Consider seeking the help of a career counselor or a professional resume writer to ensure your application materials are current and effective. Networking is also crucial in today's job market. Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and acquaintances to let them know you're looking for new opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, or connect with people on LinkedIn to expand your network. You may also want to explore different career paths or industries that align with your interests and skills. Many companies value experienced professionals who can bring a unique perspective and wealth of knowledge to their teams. Don't be afraid to explore new areas, and be open to learning new skills or taking courses to enhance your employability. Additionally, consider the possibility of freelancing, consulting, or part-time work to get your foot back in the door. These arrangements can help you build your confidence, gain new experience, and potentially lead to full-time opportunities. Lastly, remember that age is not a barrier to success. Many companies recognize the value of experienced professionals and actively seek to hire them. Focus on showcasing your strengths, skills, and achievements, and be confident in your abilities. Remember, getting back on your feet takes time, patience, and persistence. Be gentle with yourself, and don't hesitate to seek support from loved ones, career professionals, or online resources when you need it.

question:I have networked some, but it has not generated anything? Am I networking effectively?

answer:It's great that you've started networking, but not seeing immediate results can be frustrating. Effective networking is about more than just attending events or sending out connection requests. Let's take a closer look at your approach to see if there are any adjustments you can make. First, consider the quality of your network. Are you connecting with people in your industry or desired field? Are they in a position to potentially help you or introduce you to someone who can? Make sure you're targeting the right people and not just collecting random connections. Next, think about how you're engaging with your network. Are you simply sending out generic messages or requests, or are you taking the time to personalize your interactions? Are you asking for advice or guidance, or just asking for a job? People are more likely to respond and want to help if you show genuine interest in them and their experiences. Another aspect to consider is the depth of your connections. Are you having meaningful conversations or just exchanging pleasantries? Are you following up with people after initial meetings or conversations? Building relationships takes time and effort, so make sure you're investing in your connections. Lastly, don't just focus on what you can gain from networking. Think about what you can offer others. Share your own experiences, expertise, and insights. This will not only help you build credibility but also demonstrate your value to others. To mix things up, try a different approach. Instead of just attending events, consider volunteering for a cause or organization related to your industry. This can be a great way to meet like-minded people while doing something meaningful. Also, don't underestimate the power of informational interviews. Reach out to people in your desired field and ask if they'd be willing to chat with you about their experiences. This can be a great way to learn more about the industry and make connections that can potentially lead to opportunities. Remember, networking is a long-term strategy, and it may take some time to see results. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't yield immediate benefits. Keep building relationships, providing value, and adjusting your approach as needed.

question:How do you overcome job search depression or hopelessness.

answer:Job search depression and hopelessness are common and understandable feelings, especially when faced with prolonged unemployment or rejection. It's essential to acknowledge and address these emotions to maintain your mental well-being and stay motivated in your job search. First, allow yourself to feel your emotions. It's okay to be sad, frustrated, or disappointed. Acknowledge these feelings, and give yourself permission to process them. Don't try to suppress or deny your emotions, as this can prolong the feeling of hopelessness. Next, take care of your physical health. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep can help improve your mood and energy levels. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it's reading, walking, or spending time with loved ones. It's also crucial to reframe your thinking and challenge negative self-talk. Instead of focusing on what's not working, try to focus on what you're doing right. Celebrate your small wins, like completing a challenging application or having a productive day. Remind yourself that job hunting is a process, and it's not uncommon for it to take time. Break down your job search into smaller, manageable tasks. This can help you regain a sense of control and accomplishment. Set realistic goals for each day or week, and prioritize tasks that align with your job search strategy. Seek support from loved ones, friends, or a therapist. Talking to someone who cares about you can help you feel heard, validated, and motivated. Don't be afraid to ask for help or guidance when you need it. Consider joining a job search support group or online community. Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can provide a sense of camaraderie and motivation. You can share tips, resources, and advice, and learn from each other's successes and setbacks. Lastly, practice self-compassion and remind yourself that your identity and worth are not defined by your job. You are more than your profession, and your value and worth come from who you are as a person. Focus on nurturing your strengths, skills, and passions, and trust that the right opportunity will come along. Remember, overcoming job search depression and hopelessness takes time, patience, and support. Be gentle with yourself, and don't give up. Keep moving forward, even if it's just a small step each day.