Monday February 6, 2006

Toronto’s Famous SickKids Hospital Admits to Research on Human Embryos

By John-Henry Westen and Gudrun Schultz
 
TORONTO, February 6, 2006 (LifeSiteNews.com) –Toronto’s Sick Children’s Hospital (SickKids) conducts stem-cell research on human embryos, LifeSiteNews has learned.

In response to an inquiry on stem cell research, Christine Cleland, who handles donor information at SickKids, sent an FAQ regarding Stem Cell Research at SickKids.  The FAQ reveals the hospital’s participation in, and open support of, embryonic stem cell research.

Stem-cell research using human embryos involves killing the embryo in the very earliest stages of development, in order to use its cells for another purpose.
 
LifeSiteNews contacted SickKids for comment, but the hospital did not respond to our request by press time.

Please find below FAQs regarding Stem Cell Research at SickKids.
 
Does SickKids do stem cell research?
 
• Yes, SickKids is conducting stem cell research.  SickKids believes this research will allow for the development of new therapies for diseases such as muscular dystrophy, arthritis, cancer, neuromuscular disease, blindness, stroke, heart disease and Parkinson's.
 
Does SickKids conduct stem cell research on human embryos?
 
• Yes, human embryonic stem cell research is conducted at SickKids.  This research is approved by the hospital Research Ethics Board and by the Canadian Institute of Health Research oversight committee.
 
Why does SickKids do human embryonic stem cell research?
 
• Embryonic stem cells have the potential to make all cell types of the body - bone, muscle, skin, blood - and may be used to treat more forms of disease.  At this stage, SickKids researchers feel that embryonic and adult stem cell research is needed to ensure the best outcome for treating diseases that are currently incurable.
 
Is there someone I can complain to about SickKids conducting stem cell research on human embryos?
 
• If you would like to complain about SickKids conducting stem cell research, please send a letter (OR submit your complaint in writing) to the Public Affairs Department at The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario. 
 
To express concerns:
Vice President of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs - Tina Warren 416-813-5330 or
 
Director - Helen Simeon 416-813-5047 or

URL: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2006/feb/06020609.html

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