Re: Stem cell research

[Peggy Willocks <dwillocks@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I applaud your comments about adult stem cell research.  One of the most 
difficult things a politician can do is to stand on a platform that makes 
everyone happy.  Adult stem cells (with sources from bone marrow, blood, fatty 
tissue, etc.) are one of those areas.  

Reality check:  I firmly believe that even with a change in present White House 
administration, we won't be quickly getting into any embryonic stem cell 
research (aside from the possibility of agreeing to be flexible enough to allow 
the use of present fertility clinic embryos, which I think WILL happen).  And I 
say "quickly" because (as you pointed out), time is of the essence.  It will be 
YEARS before stem cell research is perfected to the point of human use.  
However, some of us would be first in line to volunteer for clinical trials for 
such.

We cling to a hope that may lead to a dead end, but we never know until we try. 
 Have you heard that polio is making a comeback?  What will be next?  As people 
continue to ignore the need to preserve our precious resources (clean air, 
water, good nutrition), we will be in even greater need of some type of therapy 
to save the masses.  

Why not try stem cell research?  Why not utilize those embryos marked for 
flushing down the toilet - or even moreso, those that will in the future be 
flushed away.  Talk about an amazing example of recycling!  

Can one be pro-life AND supportive of stem cell research?  You betcha!  But it 
will take thousands - maybe even millions to turn political AND religious 
leaders heads - and it starts with just one.  Educate your communities - write 
letters to the editor (even in small town publications), speak at civic and 
church groups.  There is a compromise out there waiting to be made - once they 
see the benefits of such research, the rest is self-perpetuating.
 

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Peggy in Tennessee