I agree with Jeremy Dincher that the analogy between homosexuality and pediatric cancer was a poor one ("Homosexuality, cancer share no legitimate commonalities," Feb. 23).

However, as someone whose brother owes his life to the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dancer Marathon (Thon) and the Four Diamonds Fund, I can't say that I am at all offended. There is a lack of choice in either circumstance -- one is either born with the genetic predisposition to sexuality or cancer, or one isn't. Do you think a teenager would readily opt for a lifestyle that makes him or her a social outcast, the victim of hate and could potentially get him or her killed? There are studies that show being gay is not a choice; you are either born gay or not.

The analogy isn't ideal, I agree. However, there is a scientific fact, and a human element, in both cases. Humans aren't perfect, and cancer and homosexuality both appear all over the animal kingdom, not just in humans. Erin Franks had her heart in the right place ("Gays fight tough opposition as a result of their lifestyle," Feb. 21), and I for one fully agree with her.