SHAHEEN STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S STEM CELL ORDER

(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen released the following statement today applauding President Obama’s executive order overturning the ban on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. Shaheen’s daughter Stefany and granddaughter Elle were present at the White House for today’s signing ceremony.

“Today, President Obama took a major step in restoring America’s role as a leader in science and medicine by lifting the ban on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. For the millions of patients and families impacted by conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries, among many others, there is now greater hope for breakthrough treatments and even cures.

“I’ve long been an advocate for encouraging researchers and scientists to look to stem cells. But in my family, this issue became personal a couple years ago when my eldest granddaughter, Elle, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. I am so proud she was at the White House today as President Obama signed this important executive order to ensure Elle and kids just like her in New Hampshire and across the country can receive the very best medical care we can give them.”