Andrew Kesselman: My mother of Filipino descent left the security of her upper-class home outside Manila at the young age of 18 to venture out to the United States. She met my father of American Jewish descent in New York City after bouncing around for a few years. Shortly after their courtship, I was born.
The medical culture in the Philippines differs in ways that reflect its traditions and attributes. Compassion takes a strong role in healthcare, especially with the elderly. Their healthcare providers have a more personal relationship with their patients and can often spend more time with them on each visit.
