¦ March 2, 2009
Update on Activities in the Stem Cell Field
by Kay Kohlman, SSPF Volunteer

Two important developments were reported in newspapers this week.  The headlines read as follows:
1. “President Obama to unleash stem cell research: The lifting of funding restrictions is expected to pump life into the stem cell research field.”
2. “Researchers report stem cell advance: Scientists have created the first personalized stem cells for patients that are free of the cancer-causing viruses and genes needed to make them.”

With his signature, President Obama has lifted the stem cell debate out of the dark ages and into the real world.  He has responded to the appeals of scientists working hard to discover treatments and ultimately a cure for spinal cord injury.  He has upheld the convictions of the vast majority of Americans against the unlearned objections of a small minority.  This development brings stem cell research out of the political arena and back into the scientific one, where it belongs. 

With the reversal of the previous administration’s roadblocks, we can expect to read reports of new advances in stem cell research more often.  Scientists will be able to concentrate on resolving issues inherent in stem cell treatment technology using every avenue possible and with less government red tape. 

Now we can look forward to new breakthroughs to ease the suffering of people who have done nothing to deserve a life of daily and almost overwhelming challenges.  Now we have every reason to believe that a cure WILL happen in our lifetime.

With its goals of raising funds for research and improving the quality of life for this population through events, grants and scholarships, the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation continues to be a leader in keeping the cause at the forefront of public awareness.  Please support our efforts in any way you can, whether financially or through your words and daily actions. 

Visit this website often to learn the details of what we do, and feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.