This is a one-of-a-kind book: combining easy-to-understand science, in-the-trenches political warfare, and inspirational stories. It aims to give hope to individuals and families who suffer from chronic disease or disability; to point out how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference in the battle to ease suffering and save lives through supporting medical research; to share in "people talk" some of the amazing progress already achieved in the new field of stem cell research; to show how even such a magnificent success as the California stem cell program is under constant attack from ideological groups; to offer medical research as a force for international cooperation; to suggest how cure research lessens the need for the mountainous costs of endless care.Unparalleled background: the author has been involved in virtually every important stem cell battle (state, national, and international) since embryonic stem cell research began. The author works closely with Robert N. Klein, sponsor of the California stem cell program, the largest source of such stem cell research funding in the world. In addition, the author is an award-winning teacher as well as writer, and seeks to entertain as well as educate. His book is not only substantive, but also fun.The book would be a treasured gift: for anyone suffering an "incurable" illness or who is a caregiver for a loved one; for a college student considering a rewarding career in biomedicine; for scientists who want to protect and enhance their research funding; and for anyone who wants to see government respond to the needs of its citizenry. Chronic disease and disability are a prison: cure is the triumphant escape -- wheelchairs should be for temporary occupancy only.
This solid primer should be useful to anyone interested in stem cells and their potential to change the world. - Kirkus Reviews
Impassioned advocacy for stem cell research... recommended for anyone interested in the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, its origins, and its accomplishments so far - Dr James Till, University of Toronto, Canada
His attitude of calm hope in the face of obstacles both public and personal is admirable and encouraging. Stem Cell Battles is a prime example of how a small group of people can bring about significant change for many. It's a valuable book for that reason alone, but the human stories Reed includes make it more so. - Foreword Reviews
This book is like no other; a monumental achievement! Due to 20 years of Parkinson's disease I am too weak to hold it for very long, so it will take the rest of my life to finish it. It contains the personal stories of people with every known disease and disability, all of which could someday be helped or cured by stem cell research. You cannot read it without becoming inspired to engage in the battle for medical research. As Don has documented, it is a difficult struggle but eventually we will prevail. It has been a great honor to have known this great man and advocate. - Rayilyn Lee Brown, Surprise, Arizona, USA
If you have an interest in science, please go and get yourself a copy. It's pleasurable reading, even for people who hate laws. - Rose Herbert
This is a one-of-a-kind book: combining easy-to-understand science, in-the-trenches political warfare, and inspirational stories. It aims to give hope to individuals and families who suffer from chronic disease or disability; to point out how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference in the battle to ease suffering and save lives through supporting medical research; to share in 'people talk' some of the amazing progress already achieved in the new field of stem cell research; to show how even such a magnificent success as the California stem cell program is under constant attack from ideological groups; to offer medical research as a force for international cooperation; to suggest how cure research lessens the need for the mountainous costs of endless care.
Unparalleled background: the author has been involved in virtually every important stem cell battle (state, national, and international) since embryonic stem cell research began. The author works closely with Robert N. Klein, sponsor of the California stem cell program, the largest source of such stem cell research funding in the world. In addition, the author is an award-winning teacher as well as writer, and seeks to entertain as well as educate. His book is not only substantive, but also fun.
The book would be a treasured gift: for anyone suffering an 'incurable' illness or who is a caregiver for a loved one; for a college student considering a rewarding career in biomedicine; for scientists who want to protect and enhance their research funding; and for anyone who wants to see government respond to the needs of its citizenry. Chronic disease and disability are a prison: cure is the triumphant escape — wheelchairs should be for temporary occupancy only.
