I realize that this can sometimes be a touchy subject matter,
and a recently I realized just how controversial it can be.
What is it you ask?
Embryonic Stem Cell Research
A recent chat with a friend got me thinking about it, a lot. I always knew where I stood on the subject but I never thought about the why and what ifs. So I started reading, thinking, praying, and researching.
There really are a lot of things to consider when it comes to this subject matter, especially the fact that I have a child with Type 1 Diabetes whom could potentially be cured from those stem cells. How could I as a parent not want that for my child? Am I a bad parent because I do or don't?
I asked myself a lot of questions like; What would I do if a cure did come from embryonic stem cells? Would I cure or not cure Lovebug? What would be the legal ramifications if I did or didn't? Could I have my daughter taken away from me if I didn't? Would friends and family be judgemental of my decision if I did?
Then I think about the embryos....Whom am I to say that those parents who had them created in a petri dish can't donate them to research? How is that any different then donating a dying child's organs to save someones life? What is worse, the embryo's just sitting in a frozen state, discarded, or used for research?
On the other side of things, (kind of playing devils advocate here) Should I blame those parents who created extra embryos for this mess? Why not just create what you are going to use, and have them all implanted rather then creating extra? Seriously, if there weren't frozen embryos around then there wouldn't even be a debate about this.
Those were just a few of the thoughts that came to my mind. I don't have the answers for all of them either. But I do know what I believe.
Tomorrow I will share that part....
8 comments:
Hmmm~ touchy subject indeed. I have to be honest; I did not give stem cell research much thought before Oct. 2008. I do remember wondering what the big issue with it was.
But now, I would give anything to have Justin cured. I do not care if someone judged me(heck, we are jusdged everyday with D). If ANY MOTHER says they wouldn't do it... they are not being honest with thenselves.
I don't know, maybe I shouldn't have much of an opinion since I have not done the homework.
I've considered the same thing many times. I finally came to the conclusion that I would do anything to save my child, just as He did for me. As a Christian, I know a lot of people struggle with this, but (IMO only) if He can give his son for me, His all, how can I not give my all for mine?
IMO it's a very gray area and you have to depend very much on your own conviction. I have to answer for the decisions I make, and if it comes to the decision to cure my son, so be it.
I hope you find some peace in your inquiry.
Well...I think stem cells are only "part" of the solution to our answer for a cure ladies. The "autoimmune" component of the disease still won't be adressed and it will eventually lead the person back to type 1. A person, to date, can go up to 4 years without insulin before needing it again after this sort of therapy. It too carries some risks. My verdict is out. If it were guaranteed a 100% cure then ABSOLUTELY I would do it in a heart beat and I don't care what anyone would say to me. Judge away people.
GREAT POST...I may post and link back on this one HEATHER...it is juicy.
I have been a big supporter of stem cell research, even before my son was diagnosed with D. It is a very touchy subject, I know! I too may chime in over on my blog later this week...
ooooh - I love controversy!! :)
Judge away peeps - I support it 100%.
Discarded or used for research? I choose research.
I can't wait to read Part 2!!
Great introduction! I'm looking forward to part 2!
Great post, Heather....
Very thought provoking. Looking forward to tomorrow....
I am catching up here... and quite happy that I dont have to wait for part 2 - I'm off to read it now! =)
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