11/18/09 Letters from Greenwich Time Readers - Exploitation

To the editor:

Dr. Ben Ramaley has been our doctor for decades. He delivered our children and we found his work outstanding -- he demonstrated the highest level of medical care combined with empathy and dignity. It was therefore with great sadness and anger that we read Greenwich Time's portrayal of Dr. Ramaley on Nov. 12. A sensationalist story and photograph splashed across two pages served not only to disseminate allegations but also to damage Dr. Ramaley's reputation as a fine and well-respected physician.

While mistakes were made and admitted to, and this is certainly very unfortunate for the family involved, unsubstantiated allegations should not be published. As the article lacked journalistic integrity befitting a respectable newspaper, we can only suppose this story intended to shock and grab readers' attention, perhaps solely to increase your sales. What you actually did was spread accusations that not only harm a good man's reputation but also endanger his livelihood and cause Dr. Ramaley and his family unnecessary grief.

While this kind of reporting may be commonplace for a tabloid, we are disgusted and disappointed by this unashamed display of exploitation. To debase the standards of the newspaper is bad enough, but to discredit a good doctor, without regard to the accomplishments of his long career, is reprehensible.

Jackie Cabrera

Greenwich

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