FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NANCY AND RON REAGAN PRESENTED AWARD FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF STEM CELL RESEARCH
(SAN DIEGO, December 5, 2004) – The American Society of Hematology (ASH) will honor Nancy and Ron Reagan with Outstanding Service Awards for their pioneering support of human embryonic stem cell research.
ASH’s Outstanding Service Awards are presented annually to individuals both in the public and private sector who have displayed effective leadership in areas related to hematology education, research, care, or advocacy.
Mrs. Reagan will be recognized for being one of the first conservative public figures to speak out in favor of embryonic stem cell research. Her position prompted many members of Congress and other policymakers to reevaluate their positions on this research and add to their understanding about the potential benefits of embryonic stem cells. Mrs. Reagan’s May 2004 proclamation that “science has presented us with a hope called stem cell research” helped to convince 206 representatives, 58 senators, and 142 nationally-recognized patient and scientific organizations to send letters to President Bush this summer to urge an increase in the number of embryonic stem cell lines eligible for federal funding.
Mr. Reagan’s moving address on stem cell research at this year’s Democratic National Convention, which helped to publicize the potential of embryonic stem cells, compelled ASH to bestow him with an award.
A special taped acceptance speech by Mr. Reagan addressing the ASH membership will be showcased today immediately following the Plenary Policy Forum (12:15 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. PST) at the 46th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology. A short video introducing the issue and highlighting the Reagans’ contributions, as well as ASH’s efforts, on behalf of human embryonic stem cell research will also be shown.
The American Society of Hematology is the world's largest professional society concerned with the causes and treatment of blood disorders. Its mission is to further the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting blood, bone marrow, and the immunologic, hemostatic, and vascular systems, by promoting research, clinical care, education, training, and advocacy in hematology.
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