Let the Cures Begin

President Obama brought an end to a Lost Decade this week, when he lifted the eight-year ban on federally-funded stem cell research. The widened search for life-giving cures brings hope to millions who suffer with diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, cancer, and spinal cord injuries.

The president is wasting no time getting new research underway. In signing the executive order, he directed the National Institute of Health to come up with guidelines, including appropriate restrictions, within 120 days.

“Ultimately, I cannot guarantee that we will find the treatments and cures we seek. No president can promise that,” Obama said. “But I can promise that we will seek them—actively—responsibly, and with the urgency required to make up for lost ground.”

During the Bush era, scientists were unable to use cells discarded from fertility clinics or even cells taken from embryos that remained intact. Research into medical cures, as well as environmental and climate problems, were subject to tests of political correctness that stunted progress. But no more.

The president spoke of the importance of “free and open inquiry,” saying research “is about letting scientists….do their jobs, free from manipulation or coercion, and listening to what they tell us even when it’s inconvenient—especially when it’s inconvenient.”

As usual, critics are reviling those who don't share their views, though you might recall that two thousand years ago, Jesus and his disciples were also denounced for daring to bring cures to the hurting and helpless. Some things never change.