Letter To Rep

1185 NW Country Hills Drive Corvallis, OR 97330 December 2, 2008 Senator-elect Jeff Merkley PO Box 29136 Portland, OR 97296 Dear Senator Merkley: On January 31, 2006, an associated press article described that thirtythree people had received transplants of organs grown from stem cells from their own body. These stem cells were from the respective hosts, and the organs were guaranteed to be accepted by the host bodies. Please introduce into the next session of congress a bill similar to Stem Cell Research Expansion Act, 3652.IS, which will expand the number of embryonic stem cell lines available for federally funded research. Scientists, who specialize in research in embryonic stem cells, believe the cells hold the key to cure or treat a broad spectrum of debilitating diseases and conditions. Cell therapy is the process in which diseased cells are replaced with healthy counterparts. Cell therapy could be applied to a wide range of terrible diseases including many types of cancer, neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Lou Gehrig's disease, spinal cord injuries, and diabetes. By supporting a bill that increases federal support of stem cell research you will be responsible for life saving research. Thank you for taking into account my viewpoint. Your consideration is appreciated. Regards,

John-Nicholas Furst