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# 169 Tuesday, June 13 , 2006 - OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BUSH June 13, 2006 Dear Honorable President George Bush: Because of your foresight, my paralyzed son Roman Reed is a giant step closer to walking again. Using stem cell lines approved by your August 9, 2001 decision, a scientist named Dr. Hans Keirstead restored partial motion to paralyzed rats, at the Reeve-Irvine Research Center, University of California at Irvine. A small California law (named after my son), the Roman Reed Spinal Cord Injury Research Act, provided partial funding for that ground-breaking work. I held one of those formerly-paralyzed rats in my own hands, while my son watched from his wheelchair. Next year, that research goes to human trials. Part of the credit goes to your August 9, 2001 decision to allow embryonic stem cell research to move forward under careful supervision, on stem cell lines made from embryos already slated to be destroyed. Building on that strong foundation, I request that you meet with Assemblywoman Diana DeGette, to discuss House Resolution 810, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. You have heard the arguments before: how cure research is the single best way to lower America's gigantic medical costs; the vast support that research has among our people; how new information reveals the need for additional stem cell lines. I would like to offer three more points: First, with one exception, HR 810 supports your August 9, 2001 position on embryonic stem cell research. Exactly the same sort of research would be eligible for funding. The only real difference between your position and House Resolution 810 is the cut-off date. Secondly, it is natural that reasons of faith should influence your decision, as they do for most Americans. You have stated that one life must not be sacrificed to save another. But did not Richard Nixon, a Quaker, send drafted soldiers to Viet Nam, offering their lives on the altar of liberty? Did not the Son of Man sacrifice His own life, to save us all? On a personal note, Mr. President, you and I have something tragic in common. Like you, I lost a sister to leukemia. Her name was Patty; she died at age 24. I miss her every day. But I also have another sister, Barbara, who has leukemia and cancer right now. Mr. President, please consider meeting with Assemblywoman DeGette, and find a way to support House Resolution 810. My son, my sister, and the families of one hundred million Americans suffering from incurable disease and disability will thank you. Sincerely, Don C. Reed By Don Reed, www.stemcellbattles.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn