I'm sorry your mom has such bad athsma. I suppose moped exhaust might have the same effect on her. Diesel fumes make my eyes and lungs burn and make me nauseous almost immediately. My father-in-law has almost died twice (once code blue) because of cats with his athsma.
That said, it's a free country, and unfortunately some people are inconsiderate jerks. However I don't need anyone's endorsement to exercise rights I already have. Like carrying a concealed, loaded revolver with me when I ride.
Back on-topic, holding it to the side makes the cherry fall off, burns them up too quickly, etc. I was asking others how they did it because I like to do it, and don't wanna waste $ on perfectly good cigs. Also, it's just an amusing topic, to some, at least.