life with diabetes

JDRF Teen Volunteer Joins Panel on Ethics of Stem Cell Research

New York, NY, May 12, 2004 — On April 26, Research!America, together with the Mark O. Hatfield School of Government at

JDRF volunteer Allison Blass,18, participated in an April 26th panel discussion of ethical questions surrounding breakthroughs in stem cell research.

Portland State University (PSU) and Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), hosted a forum and panel discussion titled "Public Understanding of the Ethics of Stem Cell Research" to help further advance public dialogue and understanding of stem cell research. The forum, which took place at PSU, included presentations by James F. Battey, Jr., M.D., Ph.D., Chair of the NIH Stem Cell Task Force, and Patricia Backlar, Research Associate Professor of Bioethics, PSU. 18-year-old Allison Blass, an active JDRF volunteer and Children's Congress delegate in 2001, was asked to be a panelist for the event. Allison has had type 1 diabetes since she was 8 and is currently the Youth Programs Manager for Diabetes Portal.

Allison is very interested in the topic of stem cell research and said, "The forum was an excellent opportunity to discuss the ethical questions surrounding the breakthroughs that have been made and whether the government will hinder other advancements in this research. Mary Woolley (President of Research!America) believes forums such as these are an 'opportunity to not only observe but participate in the formation of public policy.'" Joining Allison on the panel were several opinion and thought leaders including scientists, patient advocates, bioethicists, government officials, and journalists. 

Dr. Battey's presentation focused on the science surrounding stem cells. He explained the unique properties of embryonic stem cells, which are the unlimited capacity to self-renew and the ability to differentiate into any type of cell. Ms. Backlar explained that religious and cultural beliefs affect one's view of research. Backlar also stated that she believes "stem cell research will bear therapeutic fruit," however, she's concerned that there is unrealistic optimism about a "miracle cure" and that inflated predictions regarding the clinical benefits risk losing the support of the public and Congress.

Regulation of stem cell research was also brought up as a concern. Britain, which allows embryonic stem cell research, has started an organization whose mission is to oversee the research and regulate the scientists: the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority. Many agree such regulation is extraordinarily important as we move forward with stem cell research.

As far as her own personal beliefs, Allison says, "As a diabetic, the promise of a cure by stem cells is very exciting, but as a pro-lifer, I have had to wrestle with this issue. At the end of the day, I do not believe that the embryo is being wasted, such as it is in an abortion. This embryo has the potential to help alleviate the suffering of hundreds of people. There are about 400,000 frozen embryos in in vitro fertilization clinics, and most will be discarded in the trash. Why not honor the potential of an embryo by helping others, especially if the embryo has no chance of having a life of its own? Why not use it to give back a life?"

Still, Allison realizes there are no easy answers to these questions. She hopes that with forums like the one hosted by Research!America, people will be better educated about research and lives will be saved.

Allison hosts an online teen chat on Diabetes Portal every Sunday at 8 p.m. EST.