Stem Cells

Stem cells............what's the big debate? The issues from this controversy have weighed heavy on the minds of many citizens including myself. Just when I thought my mind was made up about the usage of stem cells, I would do more research and my opinion would change. I feel as does President George W. Bush, that all aspects of stem cell research should be considered.

Stem cells can be derived from several sources. From my research I believe that embryonic stem cells are the best source for us to use. My biggest dilemma was trying to determine when life actually starts. Is it at conception or after the embryo develops human organs and characteristics? I believe it is the later. This being the case, I feel that it is morally and ethically right to use the left over frozen embryos that will be destroyed if not placed in a viable uterus.

All in vitro fertilization clinics have some kind of contract between them and the clients on what their wishes are for the left over embryos. The choices being, keeping them frozen at a great cost, giving them up for adoption, donating them for research, or destruction. If they don't state their wishes, the embryos are usually discarded after 5 years. If they are going to be destroyed anyway, I don't think we should waste the opportunity that these embryos can give millions of people. This research could save lives or give people a better quality of life.

I truly believe with proper guidelines, the benefits can out way all moral and ethical issues. I don't think we should create embryos for the sole purpose of destroying them. We should not pay for embryos; this would prevent intentional pregnancies and harvesting from happening. We shouldn't use aborted fetuses as a source either. That stage of pregnancy does constitute life morally and legally. Stem cell research should be funded by our government; it could open the availability of therapy to all patients at a

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