michael j fox nancy reagan

Stem Cell Quotes – Nancy Reagan

Nancy Reagan Stem Cell Research Quote: “Science has presented us with a hope called stem cell research, which may provide our scientists with answers that have so long been beyond our grasp. I just don’t see how we can turn our backs on this… there are just so many diseases that can be cured, or at least helped. We have lost so much time already, and I just really can’t bear to lose any more.“- Former First Lady Nancy Reagan

This is a subject close to Nancy Reagan’s heart, as her husband, Ronald Reagan, suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. (which has created a bond between Nancy Reagan and Michael J. Fox) It’s always interesting when someone who is perceived as being part of the “status quo conservative right” steps out and makes a case for a progressive cause. Nancy Reagan had actually supported stem cell research years before President George W. Bush took a stand against it, of course, vetoing the Stem Cell Bill in 2006. Maybe the recent plea by George W. Bush’s daughter, Barbara in support of gay marriage, reminded me of Nancy Reagan’s progressive position on stem cell research?

Also quoted from Nancy Reagan after Obama reversed the Bush stem cell veto: “I’m very grateful that President Obama has lifted the restrictions on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research… These new rules will now make it possible for scientists to move forward. I urge researchers to make use of the opportunities that are available to them and to do all they can to fulfill the promise that stem cell research offers… Countless people, suffering from many different diseases, stand to benefit from the answers stem cell research can provide. We owe it to ourselves and to our children to do everything in our power to find cures for these diseases – and soon. As I’ve said before, time is short, and life is precious.” – Nancy Reagan speaking about stem cells, 2009

Related Reading:  Jon Huntsman & Tim Pawlenty Oppose Embryonic Stem Cell Research