The stem cell issue

10/17/04

I am disabled with a neurological condition and I have an interest in the stem cell issue. All of the hype that I have seen regarding the stem cell issue is bothersome and some of it is downright appalling. I am opposed to the destruction of life arbitrarily to facilitate scientific research. Embryonic stem cell research has not been globally banned and embryonic stem cell research has not produced any benefits while adult stem cell research has. There have also been reports that embryonic stem cell research have produced horrific results like tumors and abnormal growth and I am sure there are more risks that have not been discovered or widely reported.

The reports of horrific results of embryonic stem cell experiments bring images to my mind of lobotomized patients and rooms full of grossly deformed living beings. Years ago forced lobotomies were socially acceptable, but now it is generally considered to be a barbaric and unacceptable practice.

I am also appalled at the scenes of politicians telling people basically that if you vote for them then embryonic stem cell research will happen and that neurological patients like Christopher Reeve will walk. It is certainly good should that happen, but it does not seem to be very likely. Because it is not very likely many people have been given a false sense of hope and that disgusts me. Many neurological patients are very vulnerable and grab on to even the smallest glimmer of hope.

Sacrificing life to preserve the lives of others is not a new concept. It has been a major part of war for thousands of years. I believe that life begins at the moment of conception. Therefore embryonic stem cell research, which destroys embryos, will result in the destruction of life. That makes this a very serious issue. At this point in time I have only seen and been told that the benefits of embryonic stem cells are only suspected and far from certain. So, the question is should the life of the embryo be sacrificed for something that only possibly provide a benefit?

Considering the risks I am opposed to using federal money for research on embryonic stem cells that is risky and has a questionable history with only possible results. Perhaps research on adult stem cells is wise and should be promoted instead.

Regardless of the outcome of the embryonic stem cell research debate it is simply wrong to use tragically disabled people for political gain and just disgusting to give false hope to millions.

William F. Egerter