Stem cell research means embryos aren’t discarded

Publication Date: 02/13/2009

I read the Jan. 30 article where the pastor doesn’t want embryonic stem cells used because he says it’s immoral. So you think that it’s immoral to search for a cure for disorders like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ALS and sickle cell anemia?

The surplus embryos used are left over from fertility clinics. If they also aren’t used for stem cells, then they are thrown out. Its short life served some purpose instead of being thrown out. Would you rather be a 100-cell blastocyst that’s thrown away because it’s left over from a fertility clinic and then rots in the trash? Or would you rather be a 100-cell blastocyst that’s harvested for stem cell growth and research? It’s kind of like we’d rather die in a car accident and have our organs and tissues donated than die in a car accident and rot in coffins.

I have a genetically predisposed disorder. I have friends, family and relatives with genetically predisposed disorders. You might see me with my family friend who trembles from Parkinson’s, or with friends or relatives who have blindness, diabetes, heart disorders, MS, Alzheimer’s or autism. I would like for everybody to know friends, family and relatives with genetic disorders, or severe burns, or a neurological disorder and get their opinions and any research they have collected. Stem cells are also used for burns or for organ regeneration.

Matt Stath

Alumnus