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These are two official statements from stem cell research and PD organizations. They have been posted, but thought some might have missed them and it would useful to report. I would add also a quote from one of the many articles on this issue, with two additions.... "Congressional aides said that an important factor would be the reaction in the next few weeks from groups [ AND PATIENTS] advocating research on diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's [AND PARKINSON'S DISEASE] that stem cell research is intended to help. " Any reactions? Linda Herman 8/9/2001 FROM: www.stemcellfunding.org Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR) Statement on President Bush’s Decision On Federal Funding for Embryonic Stem Cell Research By Lawrence A. Soler, Chairman, CAMR "We understand and appreciate how difficult this decision was for President Bush. This is an enormously complex issue, both morally and scientifically. The President approached this decision in a most thoughtful manner by seeking the advice and counsel of many people and organizations representing a wide array of perspectives. “Embryonic stem cell research – utilizing excess embryos from fertility clinics that may otherwise be discarded – could alleviate the suffering of millions of people and their families across this country. “We are pleased the President agrees with us about the importance of embryonic stem cell research. “We don’t need an unlimited number of lines, but we need to be able to explore a wide variety in order to determine which are most effective and safe. We believe the scientific community is best equipped to set the appropriate number. “To our knowledge, there are fewer than 10 published stem cell lines, and a single biotech company has exclusive rights to them. If the President is correct and there are 60 lines, and they are available in an unrestricted way, that would be a great start. It will be critical for leading scientists to thoroughly examine the cells to determine that they are scientifically adequate. We would look forward eagerly to participating in the President’s proposed oversight council. “We want to work with President Bush to create a stem cell research policy that serves the public interest—including the interests of the 100 million American patients who suffer from these diseases—and we think that this will best be served by ensuring that scientists have a sufficient number of stem cell lines to use for research. "The stakes are high, and the potential benefits could mean the difference between life and death for the families we represent.” --Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research --------------------------------------------------------------- U.S. Newswire August 10, 2001 Friday 7:18 PM SECTION: National Desk HEADLINE: Joint Statement on President Bush's Decision On Federal Funding for Embryonic Stem Cell Research The following was released today by the Parkinson's Disease Foundation: President Bush's decision to allow federal funding for research on existing stem cell lines is a welcome first step towards realizing the full promise and potential of embryonic stem cell research, which has the potential to cure Parkinson's disease. We are pleased that the President recognizes the power stem cells potentially hold in curing, healing, and preventing Parkinson's disease as well as other devastating diseases and conditions. A major federal investment in embryonic stem cell research is essential to attract the best scientific minds to the field, protect the integrity of the findings, and set ethical standards for the research. We are concerned, however, that the limitations the President has placed on the federal funding means that the research will proceed a small step at a time when great strides are needed. The number, quality, diversity and availability of existing cell lines are all key questions that must be answered before the adequacy of the President's plan can be assessed. We hope the NIH moves quickly to provide this information to the scientific community. We also encourage the NIH to begin funding meritorious embryonic stem cell research immediately. Lives depend on this. Finally, the Parkinson's community hopes we will be a part of the President's Council on biomedical innovations and their ethical ramifications. We have much to contribute to the national discussion of this issue. On behalf of the following Parkinson's Organizations: Parkinson's Disease Foundation Parkinson Unity Walk National Parkinson Foundation Parkinson Alliance People Living with Parkinson's CONTACT: Dr. Lewis P. Rowland, President of the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, 212-305-8551 LOAD-DATE: August 10, 2001 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn