Congress Must Override Bush’s Expected Veto on Stem Cells

Nearly 21 million American children and adults in this country are living with diabetes and waiting for a cure. I don’t have diabetes, but more than 20 members of my family have lived with, and in some cases died from, this disease. The nation’s leading scientists and researchers, including those at the American Diabetes Association, believe that embryonic stem cell research allows them to better explore how to control and direct stem cells so they can grow into other cells, such as those that produce insulin. The potential discoveries toward a cure and better treatments for diabetes that lie behind this research are exciting but unattainable as long as scientists are restricted by the Administration to conduct research.

That is why the ADA volunteers from across the country strongly support the “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act” (S.5) and why we strongly urge members of the Senate and House to override President Bush’s expected veto. The bill would ensure that researchers throughout the country can conduct stem cell research, while striking a clear ethical balance.

For too long, the one hundred million Americans who suffer from diabetes, cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, spinal cord injuries and other debilitating diseases and disorders, have had to wait, hope, and pray for improved treatments or cures. When this bill becomes law – whether it be this year, next year, or after that – our nation will move one giant step closer to a cure for diabetes.