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Patients Win Big on Capitol Hill
Historic stem cell legislation passes the House of Representatives
Washington, DC-May 24, 2005-In a landmark vote today that gives hope to millions of patients throughout the nation, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation to expand federal stem cell policy-a highly restrictive policy announced on August 9, 2001. H.R. 810, introduced by Representatives Michael Castle (R-DE) and Diana DeGette (D-CO), was passed 238 to 194. The Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research representing over 90 patient groups, universities and scientific societies led the charge to support federal funding of embryonic stem cell research.
"We are deeply grateful to all Members of the House who heard the concerns of the people and cast this historic vote," said Daniel Perry, President of CAMR. "Today, Members from both sides of the aisle joined forces to take a stand for patients. In a time of increased tension between the parties, this strong show of bi-partisanship proves that it doesn't matter what your political or religious beliefs are-stem cell research touches us all," he added.
"When doctors told me I would never walk again, I could have simply given up hope, but I didn't," said Cody Unser who spoke at a CAMR press conference this morning on Capitol Hill. "Today, I am more hopeful than ever knowing I am one small step closer to my dream of walking again," she added. Ms. Unser, 18, was paralyzed five years ago as a result of Transverse Myelitis disease. She and her family live in New Mexico.
"This is an incredible step forward for Parkinson's patients," said Jackie Hunt Christensen who spoke at the press conference today and watched the debate from the House gallery. "I've had Parkinson's for more than eight years and winning today means I might have a chance to stand-up and walk at my children's graduations in a few years. That would mean the world to me," she added. Ms. Hunt, a 41-year-old mother of two, lives with her family in Minnesota.
Scientists believe embryonic stem cells may hold vast potential in the fight against deadly diseases. The cells, which can replicate themselves indefinitely, may some day be used to grow new tissue that will become the "missing link" needed to cure some of the world's most debilitating illnesses. Stem cells come from excess fertilized eggs stored in freezers at in vitro fertility (IVF) clinics. There are tens of thousands of these fertilized eggs available for research. Nearly half of infertile couples say they would like to see some good come from their excess eggs. Polls show a majority of Bush voters support expanding the current federal policy.
"We thank Mr. Castle, Mrs. DeGette, and all our champions in Congress for their great leadership today. We have strong bi-partisan backing also in the Senate and we look forward to building on today's momentum to achieve passage there. Much has changed since the President announced his policy four years ago, and we hope to work closely with the Administration to find a way to move this important research forward," added Perry.
The Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR), is comprised of nationally-recognized patient organizations, universities, scientific societies, foundations, and individuals with life-threatening illnesses and disorders, advocating for the advancement of breakthrough research and technologies in regenerative medicine - including stem cell research and somatic cell nuclear transfer - in order to cure disease and alleviate suffering. For more information on CAMR, visit the website: www.camradvocacy.org
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