Our son was diagnosed with testicular cancer at a young age. He had eight cancerous tumors, including two that were grapefruit-sized. After chemotherapy, surgery was required to remove the remaining tumors.

We interviewed two surgeons to operate on our son. The first was sensitive, caring and empathetic. He explained the surgery and answered all our questions. Emotionally, we felt very comfortable with him.

The second surgeon was arrogant, insensitive, uncaring and didn't spend much time with us. When I asked him a question about the surgery, he answered back, "Lady, I just explained that. Aren't you capable of understanding it?" Emotionally, we really didn't like him

I immediately eliminated him. I was judging the doctor based on emotions, and not on who was the best surgeon. After talking to nurses and doctors at the hospital, they said I was correct about his personality, but he was the top surgeon and our son would have the best opportunity with him. He did the surgery and our son has been cancer free for 27 years.

This life experience taught me to make decisions based on using my head instead of my emotions to determine what would give our son the best outcome for his future.

When you vote in November, please do your homework and check out the history and qualifications as to who will be best for our country. Vote based on which candidate will give your children and grandchildren the future that is best for them.

Marma Kuczkowski

Hilton Head Island