I am distressed that Dr. Michael Clarke has been tried by the press thereby violating his constitutional rights of being innocent until proven guilty. This right is the core of the fiber which makes the United States so great a country to live in.

Dr. Michael ClarkeDick Blume | dblume@syracuse.com

My experience with Dr. Clarke has been nothing but positive. In February 2013 he performed a total right knee replacement which gave me back my quality of life. I received high quality care, professional treatment and clear explanation of what to expect after surgery.

Having been both a teacher and a therapist, I came into contact with many types of people and therefore consider myself a good judge of character.

I consider Dr. Clarke to be an excellent surgeon and an ethical, compassionate and professional human being.

If, in the future, I should need a left knee replacement, I will seek him out where ever he is practicing.

Rosemary Allmayer-Beck
Fayetteville

Nothing but a professional
To the Editor;

After reading the allegations pointed toward Dr Michael Clarke' so-called abuse of patients in the operating room, my first reaction was "You really aren't serious are you?" My sSecond reaction was that I had to come to his defense.

Of course I never was present in the OR, but I was privileged to have him work his magic on my significant other with a new hip and a total replacement of his knee. Dr. Clarke also did surgery on my son's total knee replacement. His bedside manner was excellent! He explained everything, pre- and post-surgery , so we could understand all of the procedures.

I believe that everyone should be treated with the utmost respect, but could it be that Dr. Clarke is a caring surgeon making sure his patient was truly sedated? Or was it envy in the OR from others, jealous of just what an excellent doctor he is?

Sharon Schenck
Mexico

Pleased with the doctor's approach
To the Editor;
After reading the very lengthy report about Dr. Clarke and St. Joseph's Hospital I am sourly disappointed.

Instead, the article should have described the excellent work of the doctor, nurses and staff at St. Joe's.

When I was in need of a hip replacement I chose Dr. Clarke, as I had met other people who experienced excellent results with their surgery. When I met Dr. Clarke his manner was so respectful, I knew he was the right one I could trust. I am sure there are others who agree with me.

Audrey White
Marietta

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