Cells from embryos and umbilical cords may cure disease

Stem cell research provides us with an opportunity to help people who are suffering from painful, debilitating diseases. Stem cells create the possibility to cure people who were once were considered untreatable, who would have had to struggle for the rest of their lives. I believe that with this new science we are obligated to explore the options of stem cell research and try to provide for people who are afflicted with such diseases as cancer, diabetes, and brain and nervous diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.

Stem cells have the capability of becoming cells that make up tissues and organs of the body. Also, stem cells can divide endlessly, making them a very hopeful prospect for people whose cells are dying or not functioning properly.

There has been much controversy over stem cell research because stem cells are being extracted from embryos. These embryos come from fertility facilities with doctors who would never implant them into a uterus. They are either frozen or discarded. Using them to find a cure for injuries and diseases would make use of an asset that would otherwise serve little purpose.

Recently there has been research into the possibility of using umbilical cords as one source of stem cells. These umbilical cords are from children that have already been born. In the past, umbilical cords were discarded after birth, but now they may be used as a source of stem cells. Michael P. Myers, an assistant professor at Cal State Long Beach, recently received a grant to pursue this non-controversial source of stem cells.

Another controversial aspect of stem cell research is funding. The new proposition on the November ballot requires the state of California to provide $3 billion to fund this research and many people believe California is too far in debt to pursue this cause, but this money is an investment into the future of California's citizens. This research has the potential to cure millions of people and ignoring this opportunity is wrong and would be an injustice to our fellow citizens. We cannot simply say, "It doesn't fit our budget" and allow others to continue their misery. By using this money to fund research we are ensuring the health of people in the future and ensuring the well being of our state. California can only prosper from having healthier, more productive citizens.

Californians have been presented with an enormous obligation this November. We have the power to decide the fate of stem cell research. But voting against Prop 71 not only limits stem cell research but also its possibilities.

Stem cell research is a huge opportunity for California to provide for people suffering from a wide variety of diseases and I believe that it is our obligation as citizens to do what we can for those in need. This research has the potential to cure a multitude of diseases. "

Lauren Williams is an undeclared freshman at CSULB.