I am sorry to learn that the elder Dr. Dean is no longer with us. He delivered me at DeQuincy General Hospital on January 2, 1965. I wanted to thank him, but not just for that.

According to my parents, Dr.Dean counseled against the prevailing custom of routine infant circumcision. My parents, and others, took his advice that it simply wasn't necessary.

Today, the more I learn about this issue, the more I am convinced that Dr. Dean possessed a wisdom uncommon among his peers. His willingness to question the standard practice at that time -- even when it meant forgoing a fee for a service to which few knew to object -- elevated immensely his stature in the eyes of this former patient.

Last year, 41 percent of U.S. newborns remained as God made them, and the number grows annually. From my own perspective, I believe that not being exposed to that sort of neo-natal violence has made me a more peaceful adult. Furthermore, my going against the tide since day one has also shaped my way of thinking about the world. As I infer that your father did, I like to think "outside the box" and look for better answers to questions everyone else thought were resolved.

I believe Dr. Dean also handled an emergency appendectomy for my sister, Amy, without which she probably would not have survived. My parents undoubtedly made their gratitude clear at the time, but I must add my own.

I regret not being able to convey my appreciation to Dr. Dean personally. At least now you know of another family whose lives were bettered by the kind, thoughtful care your father gave us

Cordially,