Now I appear to have the unpopular opinion, but I think many of you are underestimating the role of the brain even in cases of such physiologic illnesses. I do not believe that the doctor meant that the patient should specifically pray to a God, but perhaps try keep some hope and positive outlook which religion often does for people.

With a positive mental outlook, the ailments of the body can be lessened and in some cases the recovery can even be accelerated.

Now, it is wrong to give false hope when there is none, which may have been the case as this is cancer we're talking about, not just a cold. But if there really was hope how could you not try to keep spirits high for the patient.

Also the term God is not a name, it is a title given to the holy figure of many religions. Yes it is most often seen in Christianity but really neither Jehova nor Allah were mentioned by name. The only people this should affect would be atheists such as myself. But I would not be bothered at this gesture. Perhaps you may be different.

Professionally, there is no room for religious ties when lives are at stake but when science and medicine has done all that it can, how could some alternative support hurt?