President on Stem Cell Research

Today is the 3rd anniversary of the President's decision to limit federal funding on embryonic stem cell research. His remarks from 9 Aug 2001 are here.

You should also know that stem cells can be derived from sources other than embryos -- from adult cells, from umbilical cords that are discarded after babies are born, from human placenta. And many scientists feel research on these type of stem cells is also promising. Many patients suffering from a range of diseases are already being helped with treatments developed from adult stem cells.

Actually there has been more success than he let on.

The president refers to his "deeply held beliefs."

I also believe human life is a sacred gift from our Creator. I worry about a culture that devalues life, and believe as your President I have an important obligation to foster and encourage respect for life in America and throughout the world. And while we're all hopeful about the potential of this research, no one can be certain that the science will live up to the hope it has generated.

After annoucing the funding for some ESCR, the president also promised more funding for other similiar research.

I also believe that great scientific progress can be made through aggressive federal funding of research on umbilical cord placenta, adult and animal stem cells which do not involve the same moral dilemma.

Not perfect but as Rod Dreher states, worth defending.