NEWYORK, NY—Michael J. Fox has sent a letter to President George W. Bush urging him to sign legislation expanding the current federal policy on funding stem cell research (H.R. 810). 

In his letter, Mr. Fox notes that “while it is understood that other types of stem cells have clinical potential, our own research has demonstrated that at the current time, embryonic stem cell research is far closer to therapeutic reality.

“Embryonic stem cell research transforms embryos already marked for destruction into potentially life-saving research. I can think of no better affirmation of the culture of life.

“I am asking that you, with all compassion, stand up for what is right not only for America’s continued leadership in health, science and medicine, but for what is right for the future of the 100 million American families touched by debilitating diseases,” Mr. Fox writes.

Michael J. Fox has long been an advocate for stem cell research as part of his commitment to the aggressive pursuit of all ethical avenues of research promising improved therapies and ultimately, a cure for Parkinson’s disease and other disorders.

Leading researchers have identified cell replacement therapy as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s, capable of halting disease progression and even restoring lost function, thus making it superior to current therapies.  While stem cell research for Parkinson’s disease is in its early stages, at the current time embryonic stem cells demonstrate qualities that make them the most compelling candidates for cell replacement therapies.