The practice of radiation oncology requires more than designating a preset course of treatment for some well-defined diagnosis. The need for an individualized approach, the requirement that our patients agree to a treatment plan that may take weeks to complete, the obligation to set realistic and particularized goals, all of these mean that the relationship between physician and patient must assume the form of a partnership. The basis of any partnership is trust, which for a true partnership must be earned. I strive to earn the trust of my patients by offering them the benefits of cutting-edge technology, and no less importantly, by offering an attentive ear and unwavering emotional support. I am guided by the belief that my personal success can be measured by the capacity of my patients to take on the challenges of a serious illness with faith in their own strength and resilience.