When is it all right for the government to step into your life? When a person is struggling economically, we look to the government to step in and help lift that person out of poverty. When a young child doesn't have a home, we expect the government to place that child in a safe environment.

But what happens when the government starts to tell us how to treat our illnesses?

Starchild Abraham Cherrix, who goes by Abraham, a 16-year-old from Virginia, has been dealing with this question lately. Diagnosed with cancer more than a year ago, the teen went through months of chemotherapy only to have the cancer come back. When a second round of chemotherapy was suggested by his physician, Abraham decided to seek alternative methods of treatment.

People, like Abraham, should have the power to choose for themselves whether they implement traditional or alternative methods of treatment.

But on Friday, a judge ruled that Abraham must discontinue his alternative method of treatment, report to a hospital and accept the treatment the doctors suggest.

On Tuesday, a judge granted Abraham's request for a stay, which will keep him out of the hospital temporarily. But only until Aug. 16, the date set for another trial. What happens in court next month will determine the fate of his treatment.

Even though he is legally considered a minor, Abraham was informed of his condition, the possible outcomes and alternative methods of treatment. If his age means that Abraham can't decide for himself, then the decision should be put into the hands of his parents, not the government.

And in this case, Abraham has the support and understanding of his parents. This should grant him the ability to choose which treatment he will receive.

Beyond Abraham's specific situation, anybody in a similar place should be able to refuse treatment as well.

Christian Scientists, followers of a religion that focuses on "divine healing," have been allowed to evade the presence of the government when choosing to refuse treatment. What makes Abraham's decision to seek alternative medical treatments any different?

Abraham previously underwent three months of chemotherapy; that fact should grant him the ability to choose his treatment.

If Abraham doesn't want to take the risk of going through the painful treatment and getting no results again, then his decision to participate in alternative methods of treatment should be honored.