Do you know someone who suffers from diabetes or Parkinson's disease, or has had a spinal cord injury? Are you wondering whether you'll enjoy your golden years or worried that you'll develop Alzheimer's?
Then the Livingston County Democrats have an event for you -- a panel discussion on the potential of stem cell research. Former Congressman Joe Schwarz, a Battle Creek physician, will headline the panel, co-sponsored by Livingston Democrats and Michigan Citizens for Stem Cell Research and Cures.
The event, which is open to the public, will be at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 27, at Livingston Democrats’ headquarters, 10321 E. Grand River, Suite 600 of Fonda Place, Brighton.
“Stem cell research is a topic that is of vital concern to many Michigan residents,” said Donna Anderson, vice chair of the Livingston County Democrats and the organizer of the event.
“This panel is intended for anyone who has a debilitating disease, such as Parkinson’s, diabetes, or a spinal cord injury, and wonders how long they must suffer before science finds a cure. It is intended for anyone who has a friend or relative who has such a disease and hates to see them suffer. It is intended for anyone who fears they may develop a disease like Alzheimer’s and hopes science will find a way to prevent it. And finally, it is intended for people who want to see Michigan’s economy flourish and want to know if stem cell research is a way to bring research jobs to the state.”
Anderson said the presence on the panel of Schwarz, a former Republican who represented Michigan’s 7th Congressional District from 2005-2007, shows that support for stem cell research is bipartisan. Schwarz left the Republican Party and became an independent after he was defeated by conservative Republican Tim Walberg in the 2006 Republican primary.
“These diseases – Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, diabetes, Huntington’s, and others – do not respect party lines. They can afflict any one of us. And that’s why polls have shown widespread support for research into stem cells,” Anderson said.
A poll by MIRS/RossmanGroup/Denno-Noor taken in April found that 65 percent of Michigan residents would support a ballot proposal to allow stem cell research. Researchers at the University of Michigan have been among the leaders in stem cell research, but some have left the state because of a 1978 state law preventing research using embryonic stem cells. The law makes Michigan one of five states with the most restrictive laws in the country.
Michigan Citizens for Stem Cell Research and Cures is a non-profitable charitable organization dedicated to educating the public about the stem cell research process and its potential for developing treatments and even cures for diseases.
The event will include coffee, tea, and dessert. Donations to the party will be greatly appreciated. People wishing more information may call (810) 229-4212.
NOTE: The event is on Tuesday, Nov. 27.
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