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Author: Yvonne Perry

ISBN:  1-933449-41-1

             978-1-933449-41-8

With her generously subtitled book, Right To Recover: Winning the Political and Religious Wars over Stem Cell Research in America, freelance writer and author, Yvonne Perry has provided us in considerable detail sound arguments why President George W. Bush was wrong in vetoing a bill which would provide federal funds for stem cell research.

This accessible and must-read book is essential for those who wish to know more about stem cell research reminding us that we must keep an open mind if we are to properly evaluate its worth and not be swayed by inaccurate arguments promoted by religious zealots or ignorant politicians.

Perry divides her well-researched book into thirteen chapters ending with an appendix of chapter notes and an extensive bibliography. Beginning with an overview, readers are exposed to what exactly are stem cells, the technology currently in use, bone marrow transplants, cord blood, and embryonic (blastocyst) stem cells. This is followed by an exposé of what the fuss is all about and the ethical issues involved. Throughout the early part of the book Perry clearly explains that there is no potential for the in-vitro (IVF)-derived blastocyst stem cells developing into a human embryo while in the lab. As she states: “Mother Nature must do that in the environment of a uterus. To believe otherwise greatly undervalues the woman’s role in creating offspring.”

The hotly debated issue is based on the misconstrued belief that human life is being scarified for scientific progress. Perry asks the question, why is it less moral to use these cells for research than to destroy them for blastocysts leftover from in-vitro fertilization that are not “adopted” for surrogacy are disposed of as medical waste.

The succeeding chapters go into detail with scientific data to show that anti-stem cell crusaders don’t know what they are talking about when they bring up arguments based on morality and ethics as there is rarely any mention of biology or any scientific foundation for their moral conclusions. As pointed out by stem cell biologist Dr. John A. Kessler and many others, “it is important to keep in mind that we are discussing a microscopic cluster of no more than 200 cells that has absolutely no potential to develop into a human being unless it is implanted in a uterus.” There is a huge difference between fertilization and conception and this is frequently ignored or forgotten in the arguments advanced by the moralists. In fact, as Perry shows and argues, we have a moral obligation to help other human beings and to alleviate them from suffering and disease. This is something that is common to all religions. What is outlandish about Bush’s veto as well as the people who have influenced him and supported him is that an opinion that is not supported by scientific fact or scripture prevents important funding for a technology that could prove to be a salvation for millions in the world.  As Perry rightfully states: “the Bush administration questions the morality of research that destroys human embryos, yet according to our Constitution it is neither the government’s business nor right to legislate morality.”

 While it may be true that there is no guarantee that stem cell research will produce cures for such diseases as Alzheimer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and various others, however they do show promise. Why not give it a chance and stop continuing to equate stem cell research to abortion, as nothing could be further from the truth.

Perry has meditated long and deeply into this controversial subject matter and she has come up with a tour de force as she defends her position. In the past she has been known to have authored several books that address topics that many are not too keen on discussing  such as suicide, the near-death experience, end of life decisions, and euthanasia. It wouldn't surprise me if she is the target of some cheap attacks as is case with many courageous individuals who dare to present well constructed arguments for stem cell research. Unfortunately, these attacks do nothing to further the debate or contribute meaningful dialogue.

One point in passing, a recent survey conducted by Washington Post ABC News showed that sixty-eight percent of Americans support embryonic stem cell research. Should we classify this huge segment of the American population as immoral?

 The above review of the ARC copy was contributed by: NORM GOLDMAN:  Retired Title Attorney: Editor & Publisher of Bookpleasures. Here are  Norm Goldman's Reviews