Dr Ali best man for Ob/Gyn job

The sadness about the passing of my sister-in-law, Chrystal Ramsoomair, is unrelenting, not only to me but to my brother Lorne, my brother-in-law Shiva and our families.

I would like to focus on the fact that the most respected Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Jehan Ali was at the San Fernando General Hospital (SFGH) as a visitor, to see Chrystal. He came as a visitor. It is heart-warming to see someone of his stature taking time from his hectic schedule to see a patient.

In addition, Dr Ali offered his services, but as I understand, his special skills were not utilised and his offers to assist were either declined or unheeded.

Given the trust I have for Dr Ali and the tremendous respect I have for him, the only answer that comes to mind that if he was permitted to go into the operating theatre, the outcome would have been different.

I would still like to find out why he was not permitted to assist. Given the infant mortality rate and in light of the fact that a young, beautiful and healthy mother suffered so much, to the point at which life is now in turmoil for so many of his, then something is wrong at the OB/Gyn Department.

Dr Ali not only had 30-plus years of experience, but is a humble, caring specialist. Most noteworthy is the fact that he is a fearless man of action. He saw my sister-in-law at no charge. He gave her the best possible care. He looked at the situation and took charge. This is but a small example of a physician who is proactive and empathetic.

He was the Head of the OB/Gyn Department at the SFGH for many years. He knows the place inside out. He is the best we have.

I also keep thinking about Chrystal’s legacy. I have written before that if her passing could contribute to making a more efficient health care facility at the OB/Gyn Department, then her life would not have been in vain. To achieve this goal, I feel that Dr Ali should be reinstated to his former post. It would be a giant step, if this were to happen, in the reformation and reconstruction of the reputation of this Department.

Let us not allow Chrystal’s passing to go without action. Let us start by the restoration of public faith. I know that thousands of people reading this letter would have been helped or saved by this doctor, who has been the ultimate example of what a truly caring doctor should be.

I believe therefore, that one step in reinforcing Chrystal’s legacy, and at the same time, making for the optimal service offered by the OB/Gyn Department, is the re-appointment of Dr Ali as its Head.

For the thousands who know this doctor and have experienced the benefit of his action, care and caring, I know that we will be taking that first step in restoring public confidence. For those who support this suggestion, I would urge you to write in and ask that the best man be placed in the position that would revitalise the OB/Gyn Department.

The best man is Dr Jehan Ali and I kindly ask our Government to consider this action. I believe this unreservedly and also hold that this action would redound to the benefit of the country as a whole.

Dr Franklin Ramsoomair

via e-mail