Daytona Beach - The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County (DOH-Volusia) is recognizing Red Ribbon Week by displaying a symbolic tribute representing the 88 people that die daily in Florida as a result of smoking related illnesses. Along with the outdoor memorial, people can go inside of the building to get helpful information on the dangers of tobacco and the help available at the Florida Quitline.

“The 88 tombstones each represent a mother, a father, a daughter, a son, or someone close to each of us who will die in Florida from tobacco daily,” said Ron Rondeau, interim administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County. “This memorial is a reminder that the dangers of tobacco are all around us.”

The red ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Since 1988, the campaign has reached millions of U.S. children and families.

The Red Ribbon Week Tombstone Memorial will be on display for one week starting on Friday, October 23, outside of the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County, 1845 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117.