BE EVERYWHERE: Vicki Englund, Stem Cells, and Thirty Days to Remake the World

The most important race? Presidential. Obama must win, or everything you and I care about is at risk. This is a lot more involved here than just the sheer joy of having a friend instead of an obstacle in the White House.

The most important state? Michigan : Proposition 2 must pass, or we tell the Religious Right it is okay to keep research in the Dark Ages.

The most important Congressional/Senate (state or national) race--? Your call. Right now, I know of more than 100 races where there is a strong stem cell candidate America needs to support.

Like Vicki Englund.

Vicki is a friend of mine, and a friend of yours, because she supports stem cell research with all her heart. 

Here is a personal letter from her to you, written specifically for this column.

Vicki Englund

Democratic Nominee

Missouri ʼs 85^th House District

September 11, 2008

I am a proponent of stem-cell research for three very specific reasons.  First, I believe that science and technology should be used to better the lives of everyone.  There have been so many advances in science over the last fifty years that have benefited those with life-threatening diseases.  We need to be vigilant and strive to find cures for even more people.

Second, Missouri has many universities and medical centers that provide a place for such cutting-edge research to take place.  We have a wealth of knowledge and professionals who are ready and able to take up this challenge.  In addition, the people of Missouri ʼs 85^th District support stem-cell research.

Third, and most important, I have an aunt with multiple sclerosis.  Diagnosed in her early forties, my aunt was surprised to learn of her illness, as she had always been athletic and had three young children at home.  Her disease has progressed quickly over the past twelve years, rendering her unable to care for herself.  I saw first-hand how this disease affected not only the mobility and independence of my aunt, but how it tore apart her family as well.  Medical bills and her inability to work broke up her immediate family and they struggle to get by even today.

Missouri can be the leader in the research for life-saving cures.  Our state government has been dominated by stem-cell research opponents.  We are undergoing a change in Missouri and it is predicted that Democrats will win many of the statewide races, and will most likely take back control of the House.  My district has been clearly identified as one of the most important legislative races in Missouri this year.  We cannot take back the House without winning my seat.

It is this emphasis on the 85^th District that has given us great momentum.  In these final weeks our push for victory will be strong.  We still, however, need to keep our momentum going and need more financial contributions.  Support from the life-saving cures community would put us over the top.  Please consider supporting us at www.vickienglund.com.  Together, we can make a difference.

Vicki Englund

P.S. Below are some of the folks who are endorsing Vicki.

IMPORTANT: Go to www.vickienglund.com  and send her a couple bucks-- I know, I know, everybody is hitting you up for money-- but this is important, and this is a friend. I will do it, and trust me, I can't afford it either. If my wife knew I was going to contribute anything, she would be furious. So if you see Gloria, please do not mention to her that I am going to go to www.vickienglund.com and send her a stem cell nickel--for me, that's $25. I know, big spender, huh? But that much I can do, and that much I will. Please help?

P.S. Again:  If it matters, Vicki is hugely supported by her party, winning her primary by 66%-- she is a solid all around leader, respected by those who know her, and deserving of our support.