Stem Cell Research Can Save Lives

Re “Germ of a Message Lies in Silence Over Stem Cells,” Commentary, Oct. 1: I have been a diabetic for 45 years, since the age of 2. You would not be able to tell by looking at me. But there are millions of other individuals with debilitating illnesses for whom daily living is a question of survival. Religion has no place in the decision on stem cell research. This is an issue of hope and life. President Bush has eliminated the hope and issued a death sentence to those who would benefit from stem cell research. If he is so concerned about alienating the religious right, maybe he should stop to think: His death sentence on stem cell research threatens more voters than there are on the religious right. Think about it, Mr. President. We do every day!

Jonathan Grossman

Huntington Beach