I have had type1 for 46years and am at my wits end with it. Although I have coped well and have had a reasonable life style with it I am now finding it very hard to controll my blood sugar levels. I am following the DAFNE course, but find I am having hypos every day or high Bg.Stem cells needed.

valda kirkup, beverley, england

I have had Type 1 for 24 years. I have been very fortunate to not have any serious complications, even though I am not easily controlled. Living with this has been a pain in the neck (or rather, the stomach and the arms...), but I don't really remember NOT living with it to compare anything. I would love to not have to worry about it...if I could get beta cell implants. I would love to be able to eat a meal without having to worry about how much insulin should I take...or will anyone notice if I take a shot here...or even worse, when I go to the eye doctor, will this be the visit when I'm told I have retinopathy?!

I just don't want to worry about it anymore! When I was pregnant, everything was a hassle. I couldn't enjoy it because I had to worry about the kids getting sick because of my blood sugar level. I can never do anything easily. I had to get my wisdom teeth taken out at a hospital so they could monitor my sugar. PLEASE PLEASE CURE DIABETES!!!

Ro, Long Island, New York

I have had type one for almost for almost 4 years. I am very optimistic on this research and hope that it won't take much longer to be availible to the greater population. I am a senior in high school getting ready to graduate, and even though diabetes didn't slow my sports down or community involvement, it would be nice to know how i could participate in such trials or at least see the requirements to participate.

Stephen Woodruff, Fort Lupton, USA/Colorado

I am 15 years old and I think it is cool for people to being cure by stem cells. Many people need this diagnosis to live on there lives. My uncle is 41 and has just been diagnoised with diabetes type2. Its not that bad but it will soon get worse if he doesnt take care of it.

Elizbeth, New Britain, Connecticut

It's nice to read about people being cured by using stem cells. My thoughts are, there is so much information about these cures. My daughter has type 1 diabetes and we have been living with it for over 15 years. Promises have been made that a cure was just over the horizon. this was 15 years ago. Since much money is made by the manufacturing of diabetic equipment, it looks like there will never be a cure. If only, instead of reading about 10-15 people being cured using stem cells, how about giving us information on how we can apply for this service. Help!!

Fred, Rome, New York

It is interesting that an industry (diabetes treatment) that has grown into the trillions of dollars annually has been unable to find a cure. I have been an insulin dependent (type 1) diabetic for 40 years. I have a sister who also is a type 1. The newer monitoring/delivery systems are "cool" but produce tons of medical waste each year.
I see our government actively fighting stem cell research claiming embryonic harvesting as the "horrible consequences" of this research. Odd that the Brazilian trials successfully used the patients own stem cells.....
Of course the drug and insurance industries are both lucrative and able to influence the legislature through incredible amounts of campaign contributions. I may be a cynic, but then even a paranoid can have enemies.......

Dan Carlisle, Magnolia, USA,

I´m 30 years old and have had diabetes since I was 3. I haven´t had any problems because I have taken good care of myself, those people who have diabetes and have problems with their sight, limbs or kidney failure probably have those problems because they didn´t take very good care of themselves. Diabetes is something you can live with, but you have to do it right. Please stop moaning!

Tessa, Canary Islands, Spain

My son is 27 he has been diabetic since he was 5. Have you ever lived with anyone who has this ILLNESS,my son is an absolute nightmare!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He has hypos nearly everyday his attitude is that he just doesn't care about himself so why bother,diabetes is not only a medical condition threatening lives the phsycological problems I believe to be as bigger threat to their lives,my son has tried to commit suicide twice!!!!!!!! and you people want to stop any kind of progress with regards to a cure. I want my son to be able to lead a normal life to be able to leave home but if we let him leave we are signing his death warrant, he has hypos without prior warnings,so it's usually too late for him to help himself hence the reason why there nearly always has to be someone nearby. Not only is this ILLNESS ruining his life but it is also ruining that of his young brother mine and his fathers life, the worst thing is there is just no help available for him.

bernadette gonzalez, wirral, United Kigdom

I have type 1 diabetes for 15+ years. Recently I have started seeing the side effects of it. It is a silent killer... Anyway the problem is people, who do not have diabetes, do NOT understand how it feels to have diabetes and they block any stem cell research .

The problem is that one of these retarded people is GW Bush, who happens to be the US president...The fact that this guy says that allowing stem cell research kills innocent embryos, is simply hypocritical, when he orders waterboarding and unjustified wars.

Gordon Lipper, Bethesda, USA

Im 22 years old and have had diabeties for 11 years, I try very hard not to let it get me down or to worry about going blind, loosing a limb or haveing kindney failure. but i already have mild problems with my kidneys. And 2 of my family members have died of complications one lost his leg.
If i could have 1 wish it would to be healthy. When I was growing up I was very rebellious and felt like there was no point in trying hard in school or getting a career because i propably wouldnt be healthy when i got older.
Now things have really improved in Diabeties care and I realise that I do have a future and am studying for a degree.
But I get so dishartend when people with no understanding of the disease or of life with diabeties stand in the way of research. I believe people like Bush stand in the way of research because of the huge drug industry in America.

Eilis Kinsella, London, uk

Hi I am an older sister of a 10 year old diabetic. She was diagnosed when she was 7 and ever since she takes up to eight shots a day and checks her sugar even more.

I am wishing, hoping, praying fora cure because as much as i have my sisterly quarrells with her, shes only a young girl who isn't living out her potential because she is held back by this disease.

Alexandra, evans, USA, GA

I am lucky. My lifestyle up until 10 years ago was at times rather self destructive with bouts of alcohol and cigarrettes. Binge drinking smoking is really a good way to get type 2 diabetes. I changed my life and did a degree at 48. I now have marginal blood sugar if Im not careful and I really feel for those who have any form of diabetes. I feel there is not enough research being done to even just collect patients histories of lifesyles which has lead to any trouble with high blood sugar. One goes to a GP and gets all types of opinions and vague information. And then you realise you have been pushing towards a disease without knowing it. The goals that you have set yourself in life may not happen. There must be a way to reverse this illness.

Charles, Alice Springs, Austarlia/NT

hi my name is kieran,im a type 1 diabetic since i was 7,im 26 now,i really hate it,its so annoying to live with it and inject yourself everyday,it would be like a dream come true if someone found a cure,i agree with lisa above,im all for stem cell research,if the people that were against it had what we had they wouldnt be long changing their minds,

kieran enright, cork, ireland

hi my name is jamil and i m only 20 years old now and i m suffering diabetic Type 1 for 1 years.everyday i m teking insulin 3 times a day and my life become hell and i m studing in UTS.IS THERE ANY CURE FORM THIS DIASTER LIFE?I M LIVING IN SYDNEY

jamil, lakemba, Australia/NSW

I would love to be a candidate for the research in hopes for a cure. I have been a diabetic for 22 years.

Allison, Barboursville, WV

my son is now aged 8 1/2 and has diabetes type 1 since he was 4... i actually diagnosed him myself... took him to the doctor with all the symptoms, doctor said.. i doubt it... we will give him a blood test and i will try to get a sample of blood and test for high bgl's... he rang me back within 40 minutes and told me to get to Westmead Children's Hospital (Sydney) and could i make it within 40 minutes... sure , i was at least 80 minutes away... well we made it and yes it was Juvenille Diabetes... he now struggles everyday, and so do I and his father... with this hideous disease... when his youngest brother was born we took the cord blood and are just hoping and praying that there will be a cure soon..... another thing about those idiots that don't belive in stem cell experimentation, i would presume that they had never been in contact or had to deal with a child who's disease could be cured, am sure that if one of their loved ones was ill then the legislation would be overturned.......

Lisa, Tewantin, Australia

i wonder if the stem cell vonder will work on type 1 patients who had been diabetic for long time as the doctors of brazil have made trials on type 1's who have been very recently diagonised and who according to them may be going through a phase called honey moon phase where the type 1 diabetic does not need insulin for a short while . i hope they experiment on type 1 patients who have been diabetic for more than 5 years. --tanya ,hyderabad

jeyashree , hyderabad, imdia

I am Diabetees II had diabetes since 20 years. I am now 54 years old and frustrated with this disease.
Does this work for Diabetes II.If so can I get a connection?

sameeh Noubani, Doha, Qatar

Hi,iam 24 and about 2 years ago i discovered that iam type 1 diabetic,i am taking insuling regularly even then iam not able to control sugar levels under specified limits,Even after avoiding fats,sugars iam not able to keep sugar level under control,Its effecting my eyes and i have reduced vision now,Please suggest me what to do,whome to conatct.

Amit, pune, India

At 14 before coming to period i found type1 diabetes. generally i am suffering during period only. i am taking insulin shots. i have hope that it will be cured. i stay at mumbai in India. can u suggest where/whom to approach

varsha ravindra bhatt, mumbai, india

im 29 and have suffered with type one diabetes since 12. i recently gave birth to my first child a healthy baby girl. During my pregnancy i suffered eye and kidney problems. im still recieving treatment for my eyes laser and steroid injections. going blind and not seeing my daughter haunted me to the point of suicidal thoughts what keeps me strong is my daughter she needs me and thats why more than ever i need a cure i need to be here for my daughters life more than ever not a day go's by where im scared that something will happen to me from my diabetes and i wont be here i take care of myself but i would like to ask everyone who is apposed to stem cell reaserch to look at my daughter through my eyes

sarah mawer, sunshine, victoria/ australia

Im 14 in the USA, the most anti stem cell country in the world (or at least it feels like it is). Ive had it since i was 3. I remember my entire life of shots and insulin pumps and at one point, you stop caring. The only thing that matters is the cure. I dont care anymore if it kills a fetus (main argument of anti stem cell research) If you give me a knife, i'll do it myself. But... I just dont care anymore. I just want it gone. Forever. People who dont have diabetes dont want the stem cell research. They dont know what its like. They never will, until they have type two, and even then, they dont know how us Juvenile diabetics suffer.

Alex, Dayton, Ohio, USA

Hi all!
Heartening indeed to hear of the hopefulness of the clinical trials of stem cell therapy on diabetics. Are there any other trials in any other part of the world? Is this still at the clinical trial stage or is there some place on this planet where stem cells are being used to cure diabetics?
If you know of some such place please let us know!!!!!

janet prem, Bangalore, India

my girlfriend has been suffering from Type 1 diabetes for 19 years. now she is 22. she takes 2 times insulin injection daily. i want to marry her. but my family doctor and my parents prevent me from marrying her. but we love each other a lot.now i am 25. at this age i am well established. so i want to spend whatever amount of money for her complete cure............. please help me..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i want to have my love and lover forever.................. please ....................

kolkata, west bengal, india.

dilip goswami, jamnagar, india

Hi im Aimee
im 16 and live in the UK and ive had type 1 for about seven years...and it sucks.
Its so inconvenient, and being a total ditz, i find it incredibly difficult to keep up with all the neccessary injections and blood tests etc. Every time i go to the check ups i get told the same things about blindness etc and i can see how it frustrates my mum but i cant seem to get a grip on it. i wish there was a cure and its so annoying they keep saying "breakthrough!" and then actually it turns out its not. I just want to get rid of it.

Aimee, Exeter,

Someone please help me!!!!!! My daughter was diagnosed with Type I diabetes at 11 months old. We have only been dealing with this for one month. Someone please tell me more about this! My husband and I are struggling and I can't stand the thought of my daughter living with this for the rest of her life.
Beth
California
uscdh2002@aol.com

Elizabeth , Lomita, California

My 9 year old stepson has type 1 juvenile diabetes. He was diagnosed a year ago and currently takes 5 shots a day. My best friends 11 year old son was also diagnosed with type one diabetes about 4 months ago and also is taking 5 shots a day. Please keep me informed of any clinical trials that might be available to help these two boys that are very important in our lives. Experimental trials that are available are so difficult to find. My step son currently lives in Germany which might provide him more opportunities for such trials. It seems that our own country is limited by Congress. Please help, if anyone knows of any possible trials that might be open to provide my two guys a better life.

Regina Ferrell, Richmond Hill, USA/Georgia

I dont care how they get thestem cells as long asthey get them. If its from a bunch of un born un wanted and unneeded embryos I dont care I would rather have my tax money spent on that then to pay for all the loser ignorant lazy welfare bums and thier criminal kids. If i can make it so can anyone. However the cell reserch needs to go big its time to test in as many patients as will volenter. Slaughter all the would be bush babies to get the cells if needed thenhis familycanpay for all those they have killed in thename of freedom something he knows nothing about. My wife Has type 1 and has for 30 years now. As a result she is a 48 year old with Congestive Heart Failure, Diabetic Retinopathy, Cardial Myopathy, Kidney Damage, and Several other problems from poor cerculation because of the effects on Blood Viens to the uneding cramps in muscles to being Anemic. All this because some bible thumper put the breaks on Research. What a shame. The many out weight the needs of the few.

David Christensen, LAWTON, USA / OK

Hi Everyone -- I just wanted to know if anyone has heard of any clinical trials for Diabetes 1? I have a 12 year old nephew that has Type 1 - and he is very upset . If anyone could let me know about stem cell research trials My sister would love to get him into one of the trials and I would greatly appreciate it. I think if we can put a man on the moon and that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars-- we should be able to find something to help these kids with this illness.

Ro, Denver, Co

I would like to propose we form an organization as a group!

I have an 8 year old boy who was dagnosed with type 1 diabetes a week ago; before that time I did not give it a second thought!
As I read through the articles it only motivates me to form an organization that will collect donations (I would start by contributing $500) We need to form a panel of individuals that will check to make sure any monies collected are used for the sole cause of diabetes treatment.

Rudy, Provo, USA

Rudy Banuelos, Provo, UTAH

What is exciting about this diabetes stem cell treatment is that it uses the person's own stem cells. This eliminates the immunity and rejection complications that always exist when embryonic stem cells are used. There has never been any successful cure from embryonic stem cell research but there are dozens from stem cell research that derive from other sources (patent's own bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, etc.). New research was reported last week that even the earliest types of stem cells can be derived from a person's own skin! President Bush is now vindicated in his refusal to allow taxpayer money to for embryonic stem sell research -there is now no reason to ever seek stem cells from cloning and killing embryos.

Kenneth Fleck, Cedarburg, Wisconsin, USA

Hello,
I'm a Type 1 Diabetic and have been for 12 years now. I was diagnosed when I was only 8 years old. i was on shots for 11 years and switched to the insulin pump a year ago.
I have heard about all of these positive outcomes of stem cell treatment. That's why it angers me so when President Bush cuts the federal budget for stem cell research! i know most of you are probably from the UK, but i was wondering what you're budget is for the research.
If anyone knows of any clinical trials in the USA please let me know!! My email is twirlgirl_88@yahoo.com. I would love to participate in one!
Hopefully, Diabetes will soon be cured and the stem cell treatment will be easily available to everyone who suffers from Diabetes!!!!

Katie, Urbana, USA

I'm an eighteeen year old boy diagonised to be diabetic at the age of 16.. Studying about the arrival of thenew stem cell theory, I'm very eager to have a catch on it.. I diligently ask you to continue with your research at a full swing and help in bringing forward this therapy globally.. with best regards,
Indian

Dinakar, Chennai, India/Tamil nadu

My son is 17. He was diagnosed Type 1 when he was 13.
From being a small boy, all he ever wanted to be was a pilot. Sadly not to be because of his Diabetes. I love him with all my heart. I cried for weeks when we found out. I went through emotions and, unforgivable thoughts, such as "Why mine son", "Why couldn't it be some bad person", Why couldn't it be me instead", all perfectly normal emotions that many mum's must feel! I do though, believe a cure is imminent. I cannot however, understand why the powers that be, won't allow the use of umbilicle stem cells to be used. They are not causing any distress, damage, pain or distruction to any human. Whats the problem!!! I too would love to know where i can find that cure for my son!
Gill
Bridgend
United Kingdom

Gillian Marchant, Bridgend, Wales. UK

I empathize with anyone having to deal with diabetes. I was diagnosed as a type 1 diabetic 9 years ago at 42 years old. One year later I was in a diabetic coma with heart, lung, and kidney failure. As if that wasn't enough, I also lost the vision in my left eye. I too, hope for a cure. My insurance company had initially turned me down for an insulin pump. What a shame that it took literally dying to finally qualify for one. I am grateful for that, but it still does not stabilize my blood sugars. The damage diabetes does to the major organs is frightening. I try not to think about it, but unless the United States government gives the green light for stem cell treatment, future generations will continue to suffer. If everyone had to live with this disease for just 1 week, I bet there would be leaps and bounds to eradicate diabetes. If there are any stem cell research groups in the Denver area I would be willing to participate.

Alisabeth, Arvada, USA Colorado

Looking for a cure became our family's journey when our son, Logan was diagnosed with Type I
diabetes when he was a beautiful, cherubic two year old. The disease at that time was not poorly understood, it was totally misunderstood. We were told by the endocrinologist at Medical University Hospital in Charleston, South Carolina to keep him healthy because there would be a cure when he was in his early 20's. We were so hopeful, we asked, "do you really think so?" and we were told, "I know so!". Needless to say, we lived each day with that thought in mind. He is 28, and the hopes and promises we hear today, have not changed. The most painful awareness of it all, however, is to know that a cure is only available to those able to pay. I will weep for my son tonight and smile at him tomorrow and continue to give him hope.....who will give me an assurance that the ethics that withholds a cure for my son, will also assure me that a cure will be available to everyone equitably. Burgess, SC

Gloria J. Burgess, W. Columbia, USA/SC

My mother 70 yrs of age she is diabetic , hypertensive, thyroid glad has been removed 32yrs. ago she is over weight
and she is unable to walk has her kneen joint bones have woren out now my wife gave birth to a girl child and we have save the stemcells of her and her [ the baby ]blood group and my mother's blood group is same B + so kindly suggest me the best method to solve this problem of my mom
Amogh,
Bangalore- INDIA

Amoghavarsha, BANGALORE, INDIA

Please If someone would tell me where to take my husband. he is 44 just was told he has type1 diabetes. went in last week sugar over 500 and we want to get the stem cell treament. We are in the US and willing to travel. Thanks Jeanelle

Jeanelle, Weatherford, US Texas

To "manoj verma, moscow, russia". Let me guess. Payment will be required in advance once accepted via an on line application. Only method of payment will be by Western Union or bank wire to a party in Indonesia or Honk Knog.

Mike, Mill Creek,

I have been a Diabetic since 1962 ,from the days you were starved. Unfortunately from recent complications I have found out that no matter how well controlled you are, problems are down the line it is just a matter of time. Here in Britain the cost of Diabetic treatment ,heart , kidney , eye and circulation problems are crippling the NHS (type 2 seem to be the worst). I think proper stem cell research / treatment is desperately need before the whole NHS collapses . My complications took 44 & 45 yrs to come , it seems to me that the type 1`s are trying the type 2`s whwere given a good Pancreas but let bthemselves go to pot are ruining the country .

Michael Murphy, london, uk

Hello Everyone suffering from diabetes You will we fully cured of diabetes from stem cells 100% in moscow russia Russian scientists were the first to discover stem cells and started research 50 years back They are far ahaed in stem cell biotech I am associtated with a stem cell treatment hospital which is approved for stem cells treatment by ministry of health russia So nothing to worry Hospital stay for 10 days is required and the cost is roughly 30,000 dollars U.S.D If any one is interested an wants more information please feel free to contact me Thanks Presently I am in new delhi india

manoj verma, moscow, russia

I am 24 years old , now married , at the age of 5 i got type I diabities. I am taking daily two shots of insuline. I have heard a lot about doctors trying ti find a life long cure by Stem cell. I wish God helps them to find afailproof cure for type I Diabities there by curing millions accross the globe. I am married since last 18 months , now i wish to have a baby but am reluctant as i fear my child would also be diabitic. Is there a fool proof system available on date that if addapted by would ensure a healthy baby. I reside in India Chennai city , and look for a suggession . Kindly help. God bless.

avni Kedia, Chennai, India

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 10. I am now 22 years old and have been struggling with this disease every day for the past 12 years. I am glad to say I have no compications, but I know it is only a matter of time. I just want to say god bless and good luck to all of the doctors and scientists working on adult stem cell research. You are making my dream of a cure for this horrible disease come closer to reality! Thank you!!

Lori, San Diego, Ca

I have had type 1 for more than 30 Years and I am blind in one eye and now have a lot of health issues, my control is excelent but this condition destroys your life, I am a desperate young man who wants a life not to be going with out these trial have to speed up as my children are coming of age and I fear one of them will have this condition.

We need this cure fast,

John Gray, Perth, Western Australia

Hi!
My name is Pervez Shamim from Los Angeles, California. I am a type-2 diabetic for the last 20 years. Yesterday I received adult stem cells in a Chinese Medical University Hospital. Prodedure has been developed in two American Medical Universities but thanks to Bush, it is being offered only in Argentina and China.

I am the first from the USA to receive the stem cells in China and folks there told me that a full fledged Stem Cell Center will be ready with in 18 months, consolidating all aspets e.g. Pre-operation tests, stem cell extractions and post surgery care will be consolidated under one roof.

I was told that I should start to feel better within a month and diabetes reversal by the end of three months.

They plan to offer stem cell treatments for various conditions soon.

Wish me luck.

pervez Shamim, Torrance, California, USA

I have had Diabetes since i was 8 years old and 10 years on i still am struggling with the idea of injecting myself 5 times a day. I have a partner who is very supportive of diabetes although the understanding is still growing. I have handled Diabetes exceptionally well throughout my life with constant balanced blood sugar levels and excellent dieting. I have dreamed, day upon day that a cure would come out. Reading through these articles has made me cry for hours. I have the fear that when i have children, they will also have it. I hope that this time, this cure will be the one as many, many, many times has there been a mention of a cure and i am yet to see one. Good luck to all the scientists who strive every day to help us. I hope God's on our side. :'(

James, Mytchett, United Kingdom / England / Surrey

a loved one very dear to me has type one diabetes. it has made it difficult for him to afford schooling and many more things in life. he is very young and of course it is hard emotionally as well as physically. i know he is only one of very many who are forced to sacrifice so much in order to continue paying for all the medical things he needs to survive. let our generation be the last to suffer. get the word out that there is chance for a cure. support those reseachers as they are on the verge of miracles. good luck to you all.

Brianne Behrend, Idaho falls, Idaho

I hope a cure will be found soon, my friend was just diagnosed with Diabetes last week, and I really hope that she doesn't have to live with it all her life.

Michael, Melbourne, Australia

Me and every other diabetic out there sure wolud like to know which Presidential Candidate is for stem cell research. Maybe that person should focus their campaign on doing surveys on how may votes they would get for backing and prommising to find a cure for all of the debilitating diseases . I am sure that for every "one", type 1 diabetic, there would be at least all the backing and votes from those family meambers. The family members want a cure also. Myself,I have been a type 1 diabetic for more than 25 years and 3 years ago my 9 year old was diagnosed. It have been very hard taking care of two diabetics, mentally and financial wise. So, if any one who is diabectic, etc., if you get to oppertunity to approach a presidential candidate, put the bug in their ear.
ALL OF MY DIABETIC FAMILY MEMBERS, STAND STRONG!!!!

Beth, Alkol, West Virginia

I wish all typ1 diabetes Experts(immunologists and co.) to expand this method and to cure typ1 diabetics after long,long 80 years!
I think, it is really the time for a cure. I wish good luck Dr.Burt and all other scientist experimenting with stemm-cells to cure type one diabetes. It would be great to make some experiments in Europe with stemm cells and i'm sure many of diabetics would like to participate.

Best Wishes

Dawid, Wien, Austria

I hope there will soon be a cure! I have only been a diabetic for about 3 years I was diagnosied when I was about 17. I live in the uk and didn't think twice about the possiblity of having diabeties. But after I had lost over 2stone in 1 month I finally went to the doctors and then was rushed into hospital whith a blood sugar of 75mmol/l at which time the nurses were stunned to see it so high and me be fine. However after a week in hospital I stablised and am now coping. But I still find it really hard it it anoys me so much, testing, injecting and tbh I dont do it alot of the time, because I just get sick of it. However when I get an infection I get back on track.

Thanks to all the doctors out there who are working hard to find a cure!

Tony Partridge, Douglas, Isle of Man, UK

I am a 36 year old woman with Type I Diabetes. I was diagnosed at 11 years old. I hope and pray everyday that a cure is around the corner. Not necessarily for me (although that would be an added bonus) but for the young and newly diagnosed. I have a seven year old daughter and I worry that she may someday be diagnosed with this disease. This study gives me hope that if that horrible possibilty becomes a fact that she may be cured and not have to endure what I have. Don't get me wrong....I appreciate everything that has already occurred...the progress and technology that has made this disease so much more manageable since my diagnosis 25 years ago. I can still remember the days of "sweet n low", urine testing, the first glucometers (they were big and heavy), having to eat the same amount every day whether you were starving or full, pork insulin, etc.
My thanks to all the Doctors and researchers for their hard work and dedication. I also thank anyone that has ever made a donation

Tawnya, Roseville, CA / USA

I have just been diagnose with diabetes type 1 and I find it very hard and upsetting. No seemed to have helped me much when it came to give me advice, even the nurses at the hospital had scared me. I have almost fallen into the category of depression and being sort of mentally ill. But ive over come it with the help of my friends and family. My mum had been the biggest support for me and I live with a hope that one day there will be a cure!

harpreet, birmingham,

I have had Diabetes since the age of three and i am now 17 years of age. I have also been'Blessed' with Coeliac Disease since the age of 9, And at times yes i do find it difficult,depressing and upsetting. But then again theres always someone worse off then yourself. I believe that if theres a logical way out of a situation like this. Rise up and take the challenge! Even if it does get you down.
I hope that when i am older i do not have to let this weight burn down upon my childrens lives.

Josh, Denbigh, North Wales

I am diabetic since 1998 my age now is 36 i have three kids one of them who is just 2 years old is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes,My doctor told me to take care for at least two years only as there is 99% possibilty that this disease will be cured,So let hope .I am really eager to hear stem cell can cure diabetes.

Akber Versi, Dar es salaam, Tanzania

I've been diabetic now since the age of 8, and am now 26. That being said I live a basically normal life with my husband and my daughter. In the last few years I've had more problems, but not as bad as some of the stories I've read here. I'd like to see diabetes cured, and have no objection to stem cell research. More than anything though I'd like to see it for the children that have diabetes, I've lived with it for this long, what's a little longer. I was told by my specialist that diabetes would be cured by the year 2000, and you know he was pretty close, but these procedures need to be made available before more people are forced to live with this disease longer than need be.

Cathy, Prince Albert, Canada

You are always talking about Type I cure which is a minority issue. Is this new treatment applicable to Type II also? who have become insulin dependent. After all, conversion of type I to Type II is due to insulin dependance. Also the talk of large scale cure in another 8 years is disheratening. When there is no side effect observed for 3 years why should the treatment be suspected and delayed further. Simultaneous study can go on and the lives of many persons can be made better immediately. I hope the researchers will give due thought to this.

KR dasharathi, Bangalore City, India/Karnataka

Some people need to read more. Adult stem cells, e.g. bone marrow, are not pluri-potent, being that they do not easily mutate into a cell that anyone can use. They already have specialized characteristics--which is why donors would have to be a match on 6 counts--which is difficult to find. The procedure also hurts like crazy, which makes gaining volunteers more difficult. That being said, everyone should consider joining a bank, because you can make a difference for someone.

Embryonic stem cells are leftovers from fertility clinics, where women with fertility issues go to try to conceive. The leftover embryos would be dumped in the garbage otherwise. I think the chance to help anyone, child or adult, with their pain than be on high horse with self-righteousness is the truly ethical choice.

Shannon, Washington, DC

Are you aware that obtaining embryonic stem cells involves cloning and killing an innocent human life? And apart from the ethical side, there are SO many problems with cloning!

Clones are genetically identical, which mean they're all prone to the same problems. A single virus could kill all of them. This makes clones genetically unstable, and extremely prone to illness and mutation. Only about 3-4% of cloned animals live for more than three weeks. Even Dolly, the famous cloned sheep, died at a far younger age than most sheep.

Embryonic cells are very unpredictable, and there's no knowing what they might become. These cells are also dangerous because it's impossible to completely distinguish the stem cells from cancer cells. So far, scientists can only remove 80% of cancer from embryonic cells.

The answer is adult stem cells. They're cheaper, ethical, and far easier to get! They've already been known to cure diabetes, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's, MS, spinal cord injuries, etc.

Therese Schaefer, Melbourne, Australia

i am a journalist and a writer of many books. i hate bush. i know what he did to me who is a mother of type one diabetic.a constant pain, suffering for the child and for the parents.
i hope a cure by stem cell will come soon to save my son

kshama sharma, new delhi, india

I'm a type 1 diabetic and have had it for the last ten years..I have been in over 8 serious comas and have had alot of complications...I would love 2 see Bush or the goverment deal what i have 2 every singal day of my life and tell me that they would think the same way after...I suffer as do millions of diabetics every day...I would love 2 see millions of people walk down the street and not worry about their blood sugars... I will fight as i have for ten years...Bush is a FOOL....

Kimber, Odessa, U.S. Texas

I am not a diabetic, but my girlfriend is a type 2 diabetic and has been one for the past 4-6 years (she has never really mentioned to me that much of when she was diagnosed, but thats not the point). I practically live with her now and she takes care of her diabetes very well. I feel shameful to offer her stuff that she cant eat because of her condition because I forget sometimes.
Anyways, all I am trying to get at is that all I want is to have her be able to not care about "shooting up" and be left on the certain things. She was the one who informed me of this newly tested cure and I am going to follow through with it and see to it that she is cured. I feel that more research should undergo these studies and that America should be more involved, because as of right now it is perceived to me that America wont except Stem Cell Research as a way of population control. They talk about religion and how the study is immoral, yet allowing people to suffer and be ruined financially isn't?

John Barnhill, Gurnee, IL

The sad truth is that the world of big business does not want a cure to exist for mankind. If there was no suffering they would make no money from you !!
I have diabetes & I am on dialysis. No one in the system cares as long as they get paid.
Bush is a fool. Stem cell research should be a top priority not a religious no, no.
Politics & religion have killed hope for the average person.

thom hemby, orange city, FL

My son Ryan was diagnosed this past December 18th, 2007 at age three. Our Fourth son was just born last week and we have stored his cord blood. I am very encouraged about the results of these studies and hope that my Ryan will be able to free of insulin with the help of his baby brothers stem cells.

Steven, Kearny, U.S.A. NJ

I am a type 1 diabetic and have been for 12 years, I am only 24. I already have complications from the disease. Vision problems, loss of sensation in my hands and feet and digestion problems. Theese problems will NEVER go away. Drug companies make a fortune selling us diabetics our medication and don't want to loose that monthly revenue. If a cure where found it would be costly. The governments need to step in and take controll. We need a cure, we can not keep making people rich just to stay alive. Diabetes needs a cure, now!

Matthew Cordy, Etobicoke, ON

if this cure will stop me from having to inject myself up to 7 times a day, i'm willing to do it. anything to stop this. i've had diabetes for almost 2years now and i'm so tired of having hypos all the tme and hypers. please, if this worked on these other patients, give us all a chnace to lead normal lives, soon.

Zaidi Ammeer, St Albans, England

i am a type one diabetic. i have had it for about 8 years now & i am only 13. i have had my ups and downs, but it is a very distracting disease when it comes to school or even just to hang out with friends. i miss many of my classes from having low and high blood sugars. you have no idea how awsome it would be if i was out with my friends or in the middle of a test and not having to check my blood sugar because it would be handled differently. i would love to be able to eat a candy bar without checking my blood sugar and then given myself insulin. i dont like how all my doctors and nurses tell me oh in another 10 years there will be a cure. time is just about up for the cure so, hopefully this cure will be outt soon and given to every diabetic in need =)

kelsey, quincy. MA, U.S./ MA

Hey Bob, I really feel for what you are going through. My son was diagnosed at age 8, now 10, and is doing well, despite it. I wish I could take diabetes away from him as I'm sure your loved ones wish they could for you too. I know this sounds cliche but there is hope of a cure within your lifetime. My cousin has had diabetes for 31 years and has never seen such an explosion of good research as what has been going on since my son was diagnosed. I understand why you are disappointed and bitter and it isn't fair for anyone to go through this kind of suffering, but you will see...take care of yourself so that when there is a cure, you'll be in great shape to get it and benefit from it.

Tricia, ridgefield, ct

I am willing to be a volunteer for any kind of experiment regarding this matter just to save my child.

Bezabih, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Replying to bob in the uk, ive had diabetes for 13 years now and im 15, i completely agree with what you are saying, ive been told about cures several times, but the only response i seem to get is "another 10 years" the problem with this cure is that it is going to cost soo much money that alot of diabetics will be unable to fund them selves with, i moved to canada with my dad, 3 packs of insulin cost 450$ and thats only insulin. I personally think that they should stop getting us hyped up about this cure, as it has failed several times but hasnt been published in the news, the time will come just not at the moment...

Hamish, Calgary, Alberta

i agree with the first comment in that alot of people would stand to lose a lot of buisness over this cure...
im angered by the second comment, God Bless??? if you beleive in god then you must beleive that he is the guy who gave your son diabetes (and the rest of us) and with no good reason, so keep your god bess!
and i feel for the 13yo in the last comment i have only had it 2.5years and im 21, it has stopped me doing things in my life i wish i could and the up and down on sugar levels is a nightmare! problem in UK is that we have so much safty tape up i dout i will even see a cure in my life time (specialy since its now shorter thanks to diabetes!!)

good look to all type 1's out there

Bob, Blackburn, UK

i think myself that treatment and possible cures are being put on the back burner possibly by big companys like roche, lilly, glaxo smith kline etc leaning on the powers that be, imagine how much money the companys would lose with a cure!, not able to supply their insulin and components, and how much does the goverment take in revenue off them?, conspiracy or truth!! my thoughts are on the latter what do you think.
An email to diabetes uk came up with nothing when i asked them about research in canada, is this yet another money machine with rich md`s?.

steve, rotherham/sheffield, uk

Hi,
I live in Florida, my son is a type 1 diabetic since he was four years old. It's really been hard. He always question
why me? I always tell him he's the strongest little person
that i know and God put no more on us than we can bear.
of course it's not what an 11 year wants to hear. I pray
that they will allow stem cells. Are find a cure so these
kidds can have a normal life.

God bless,

Anne Mckinzie, Lauderhill, Fl

my name is chandelr and i am a 13 year old that has diabetes and it makes me so mad thatt bush wont let them use this treatment in the u.s. trust me i would be one of the first ones to try this! i have had this since i was 1 and a half years old it really is not cool that kids sould have to go through this. i have gotten worse though the years an my sugar is almost always above my normal level. If bush would take the ban off of stem stell research then maybe i could be cured and know what it is like to be able to eat dinner without having to start late because i had to check my saugar and we wouldn't be almost out of money at the end of the month because i had to get insulin or $450 supplies. it would make me SO happy if i could get this treatment!

chandler, Drumright, United states

If this information is correct then people with type 1 diabetes should be given the option of having the treatment even if they have to make a financial contribution, it is all well and good for some people to oppose the treatment but at the end of the day it is other peoples lives at risk and as each day goes by the risk increases.

John Graham, Minster, England

to reply to Amanda in Florida, diabetes isnt caused by high blood sugars, it is caused by our immune system attacking its self... but high blood sugar leads to type 2 not type 1... they will come out with a cure one day, ive had diabetes for 13 years now and im 15...im lucky since i cant remember looking back on my life and thinking "ooh i remember eating a chocolate bar without taking insulin" the only thing that sadenss me is that they keep saying another 10 years..

Hamish, Calgaru, Alberta

diabetes is caused by high blood sugar right?
so what if it was people with low blood sugar are more liky to have dietabes becasue they try and try to get there blood sugar uo and then they get high blood sugar which trigers (DIABETES)......

Amanda, psl, florida

One of my husbands closest friends died recently of diabetes, it was very harsh on the both of us. For years we have believed that the government has readily available cures for Diabetes but won't announce them due to the money insulin dependents spend, so hearing that Diabetes is actually and openly being cured is a huge heartwarmer!

Elizabeth Johnson, Seattle,

Hi I've been type-1 for about 4 years now. The way I became dibetic cause of a pecripted drug side affect. I never am good with shots i hate it. So i hope this comes soon with stem cell research. I hope they hurry up....

Matthew Morse, Bellevue, Michigan

I have been searching for pages wher I can find out the cost of having Stem Cell Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes but there seems to be no information on this. I have also been trying to find sites where I can volunteer to take part in clinical trials for Stem Cell Treatment. Again, I can find nothing.
How do people get registered for these things?

Brenda Harris-Diffey, Castleford, United Kingdom

My name is Dorian Cain, I have had type 1 Diabetes for 23 years, I try to stay active, and monitor as oftin as posible, there are those day that realy do sux. I meen say if I eat and my infusion isnt absorbing good and my Blood sugar goes to high, I will admit that I am not as active as I should be . But I do test oftin and my A1C has been around 6.3 to 7, the doc say that is good but we all know (WE DIBETICS) would like a cure, I know I would . I pray for those that dont have this diesese never get it and for all those that do I pray for a cure soon , cause I know how it feels, I am not afraid of dieing just dieing with pore health , you see my dream was taken from me at age 23 when I was diegnosed. you see you cant pilot a jet if you are a dibetic. I do ride my motor cycle and it does give me some freedom .I love hy wife for all the support and assistance she gives, I dont like paying over $500.00 a month for insurance. so yes I want a cure .
stem-cell or otherwise. Prase the LORD.

Dorian Cain, Lubbock, TX

My name is Dorian Cain, I have had type 1 Diabetes for 23 years, I try to stay active, and monitor as oftin as posible, there are those day that realy do sux. I meen say if I eat and my infusion isnt absorbing good and my Blood sugar goes to high, I will admit that I am not as active as I should be . But I do test oftin and my A1C has been around 6.3 to 7, the doc say that is good but we all know (WE DIBETICS) would like a cure, I know I would . I pray for those that dont have this diesese never get it and for all those that do I pray for a cure soon , cause I know how it feels, I am not afraid of dieing just dieing with pore health , you see my dream was taken from me at age 23 when I was diegnosed. you see you cant pilot a jet if you are a dibetic. I do ride my motor cycle and it does give me some freedom .I love my wife for all the support and assistance she gives, I dont like paying over $500.00 a month for insurance. so yes I want a cure .
stem-cell or otherwise. Prase the LORD.

Dorian Cain, Lubbock, TX

it would be good if there was a way uot ov this hell ive had diabetes type 1 for 12 years my teeth had rotted i feel terrible i have lost jobs and recently become deppressed ive been in hospital twice or 3 times take 4 jabs a day and feel so low its untrue i cant have the tretment and dont no why hhhheeelllpp

rick, london,

I was diagnosed with Diabetes type 2 since I was 27 years. Now, I am 36 and keeping the diabetes under control. Although, I would like that a cure is found, I believe that embryonic stem cells should not be used for research. Killing human embryos is inmoral, so I rather die of diabetes that using a stem cell treatment that come from killing another human being. There are other alternatives for stem cell research, such as adult stem cells or umbilical cord stem cells. As a tax payer, I do not want that my tax money is used to fund "embryonic stem cell research" because it is a crime. However, I do want my tax-money to be used to fund adult or umbilical cord stem cell research because that does not involve the killing of embryos.

Ismael Pena, Pembroke Pines, Florida

I have suffered diabetes now for 53 years and would encourage the President of the United States of America to become much more proactive in his approach to the cure of cronic disorders such as Diabetes . He should act sooner rather than later or many will never know how it feels to be free of diseases such as diabetes .
Let him be remembered as a kind and loving statesman rather than just as G. Bush President of the United States of America .
God bless America
God bless the President

chris douglas, Ashburton, Devon/England

What about injecting stem cells from one's own child? Is that feasible? Would it reduce likelihood of rejection?

matilda, Athens, Greece

Whatever is done for cure of diabetes must be done fast. Why are the trials that are successful are not on the market. What is the missing link between trial and market. Can the scientists find the exact cause of type II diabetes and find a medicine to remove insulin resistance? When will the best in the medical field be able to remove this scourge. Now persons without this disease iare thinking that they are safe. But no one knows how swiftly it affects more and more people. I therefore wish that drug companies shall bring out medicines fast without resorting to politics and money game
KR Dasharathi

KR DASHARATHI, Bangalore, India

Teresa,

If you're talking in terms of results, adult stem cells are more limited in their uses because they've already differentiated such that they can not regenerate *all* tissue. There are dozens of chemical messengers that tell a cell to take on the characteristics of one tissue vs. another, and there are probably a great deal more to be discovered. It is generally accepted as scientific fact that embryonic stem cells can generate any type of tissue found within the human body. The process, however, is far more complicated and requires a lot more research (which requires substantial funding) than simpler systems - but less powerful - by comparison.

Just because we haven't succeeded in 20 years of research doesn't mean that it can't be done. Think of people who tried to fly, or get travel to space. It's a solvable problem, but you can't rush things.

Jeff, Berkeley, CA

Why do they have to wait? Wait for total failure of organs, blindness, etc. I have a friend with diabetes whose body rejects insulin, spent much money, seen many doctors. If there is a cure or at least an easement, he is ready to try it. He could benefit greatly from this o cell therapy. He gives so much to others, I can't stand to see him fail. Everyone could use more money, but he is willing to help fund his own treatment, just for a chance at a treatment. He is the hardest working, most unconditionally giving person that I know. Who will listen?I have a lot more to say and no more space here to say it. What is the hold up? Or is it a hold out?? My own mother struggled and eventually died of diabetes complications, i.e. heart failure and kidney failure. Why do we make them wait? This is good man, who helps so many, even perfect strangers. So Oprah, Bill Gates, Dear God, anybody that knows anyone that can help! Can anyone hear me? help?Please before it's too late for some!Thanx

Cindi, New Cumberland, PA

I have diabetes from my 10th birthday and I am now 28. Slowly but surely my body is devistating. The disease is not a normal one. Its a disease which ensures a lot of people a good and well paying job. There are also a lot of instruments needed and there is a lotta cash going on it all. Im living in the netherlands and I smoke marihuana most of the time. It gives me the pleasant "thought" of healing one day and I am not giving it up. President Bush also has a dislike for marihuana because it's a drug. but what does the word "drug" mean? Medicine. Nothing less or more than that.

I believe in the Rife instrument. I think it is great. Maybe one day I buy one and check it out. Until that day I am watching the STEMCELL THERAPY real close.

jan gilles, IJmuiden, the netherlands

The fact is that this cure was due to Adult stem cells not embryonic ones. Embryonic stem cells have not cured anyone after more than 20 years of research. No one has ever disputed the need for Adult Stem Cell Research. The issue in Washington has to do with whether or not taxpayers should pay for Embryonic Stem Cell Research which has 100% failure rate after more than 20 years of research. Mr. Rose is deceiving his readers for his own personal agenda.

teresa, Roseville, CA

I can't believe this deception. The cure was due to ADULT stem cells, not Embryonic. Get your facts straight. Bush has nothing against Adult Stem Cell Research. In fact, no one has anything against it. Embryonic Stem Cell Research has 100% FAILURE rate after more than 20 years of research. Why should my taxdollars go to that? That's the debate in Washington. Get your facts straight!

teresa, Roseville,

I have had diabetes since i was 4 years old. now im 26. i'm to the point that i hate life cause of this disease. i have to worry bout insulin reactions all the time i've lost jobs cause of insulin reactions. i can't keep up with a normal person at anything physical for any amount of time. it messes with my mood all the time. i mean i think bush should go get outta his little church and come on out in the real world for a minute and see the suffering he is causing. if he did maybe he'd get so depressed after realizing what hes done he'd go kill himself. If i can get cured of this disease to live a normal life noone should be able stop that from happening. i think there's a little thing in the bill of rights that says you can persue happiness the way i look at it bush and his buddys are violating my basic rights.

DJ, tacoma, WA

My father had type 1 diabetes since he was 19 years old. He has had type 1 diabetes for 31 years. Two years ago he received a kidney transplant at the Ohio State University Hospital. And last year he received a pancreas transplant from the same university. The pancreas has allowed him to be insulin free since the surgery. So all Ive known is diabetes since I was born. So I can understand the drain of diabetes, as an indirect way, and possibly getting diabetes myself due to genetics.

I support President Bush in not supporting StemCell research. He does not want society to use stem cells in an immoral way. Why can't society just use the umbilical cord from births. I don't know all the research that goes into stem cell research, but what I do know is that abortions help stem cell research...and that is what I don't support. I don't support killing new life to sustain current life.

Justin, Weirton, West Virginia

I was diagnosed with Diabetes at the tender age of 7. I am now 23 years old and I HATE this disease. It has put fear and loathing into my life and I would do anything to rid my body of it. 'Normal' people claim it cannot be that bad to be diabetic. Really?! Have they ever had to wonder about the probability of giving birth to your own child, not because you are infertile, but because your own child would probably kill you (too much strain on your kidneys)? I can't eat chocolates or cake, or drink coke or juice from concentrate. I can't do too much exercise, or get too little of it. I have to prick my finger every day, take needles with me wherever I go. I have to study any meny before asking a waiter exactly what is in their food at a restaurant. I battle to have orgasms (apparently the feeling in that area of my body is going dead due to the diabetes) and I am going blind.

I wonder what Bush would say if this had to happen to him?

Minette Mengel, Leicestershire, United Kingsom

Stem Cell ‘Cure’ for Diabetes Type 1
This sounds like a miracle cure, and for Type 1 sufferers will come as a possible life line, hopefully sooner than anticipated. However. Far be it for any of us to debate the pros and cons of stem cell research at the expense of people suffering with this disease, be it from childhood or as a result of diabetes type 2 which has developed out of control. However, from a nutritional standpoint, there is much that can be done to support the immune system of Type 1 diabetes sufferers, and even more for Type 2 diabetics, who can reverse the condition before it develops into Type 1 if they diligently follow the guidelines of nutritionally aware health professionals. Many diets developed from a dietetic aspect through a medical approach are destined to turn Type 2 diabetics into Type 1 within 5 – 10 years, but this is not necessary and there are many cases of completely reversed Type 2 diabetics to prove the point

Jill Fraser Halkett, Stanford,

I've had diabetes since I was 18 months old, and have had it for 15 years. Living with diabetes has not been a problem for me because I have never known life without it and I want to be able to. Whether it is from embryonic or adult stem cells really doesn't matter as long as it is working. Politcs is getting in the way of science and until President Bush is affected by an automimmune disease such as diabetes, he won't understand why they are so vital to research. Any progress that is made is great and hopefully the cure is just around the corner, but if big wigs like Bush didn't get in the way all the time, the cure might already have been here.

Carly, Marblehead, Ma

I'm 23 y/o. I was diagnosed as a type 1 just over six months ago. I've been told that diabetes is genetic. However, nobody in the last 3 generation of my family have ever had it, other than my mother who had gestational diabetes while she was pregnant with me. Does anyone know if there is a direct link between the two. I've also heard of a link between intestinal yeast infections and auto immune diabetes. Also dairy has been implemented. Apparently there is an antibody in cows milk meant for calves, that mistakes the beta cells as foreign. Oh well if anyone has any thoughts on anything I have said, please post. Lets all have positive thoughts about the future of medicine, and the judgement of the industry in general. Good luck to all of us.

Cody LoMedico, Brooklyn, New York

I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 1962. I had a 15 month old daughter and was told you only have about 20 years to live. I fought very hard to stay alive with this vicious desease and have had 15 eye surguries including two vitrectomies. I have to test 5-6 times a day, take 2 kinds of insulin (5) shots per day, battle the frightening hypoglycemic reactions, suffer the embarrassment of paramedics coming to my aid by ambulance etc several times each year, suffer stabbing pains from my diabetic neuropathy, currently in a crow walker, and have been wheelchair bound for 3 years or dependent on crutches and canes because diabetes has caused Charko desease in my feet (disintegrating bones). I further have developed intestonal paresis and have gained 40 pounds I do not need from the inactivity of the wheelchair. I would like someone who opposes medical research into areas they think should be forbidden, why I should suffer like this when a cure could be developed to save me from it.

Carolyn, South Jordan, Utah, USA

No offense everyone hoping embryonic stem cell research, but all the cures are coming from adult stem cell research. Both in the US and abroad where embryonic stem cell research is allowed. Isn't it about time people stopped making this a political issue and looked at the science of the situation which VERY clearly indicates that adult stem cell research is far more promising then embryonic?

Jon, Boca Raton, Fl

There is not a mention of wether these people are gonna be on anti rejection drugs for the rest of their life! I would rather have the diabetes than that as the cost would be 10 times what I already pay for insulin and needles! Do they inject anti rejection drugs? Wouldn't that be fun! I am a type 1 diabetic. I was diagnosed when I was 20 years old and am now 50. I have diabetic neuropathy which is the blood can't get down the small viens to feed the nerves...the result is numbness and pain when I do too much with my hands. I think my diabetes was caused by my immune system attacking the insulin producing cells, and I think the reason it happened was from a lack of trace minerals in my diet. It concerns me that no one looks into why the imune system attacks it's own cells and what could prevent or turn this around! The last several years I have been taking plant derived mineral supliments and they have been helping me in a variety of ways. I think lack of minerals may by the cause!

Tom W, Duncan, BC, Canada

Just one day off!! That's all I ask. I have been diabetic since the age of 7 .I am now 34 years old. So 27years and no day off. I ahve had comlpications with my eyes and I am suufering from acute renal fialure. In other words I am on hemo-dialysis 3 times a week, 5 hours each time. It's very hard. I was registered blind for almost 2 years and I have had vitrectomies in both eyes and both my retinas were detached. It's not easy being diabetic and having renal failure. You really do have to watch your diet. I get very envious on hot days when I see people have a long cold drink. Being on fluid restriction means I must limit my fluids to 1 litre a day. Wow you're thinking that's not too bad. Well when you take into consideration cups of tea, soup ,rice (yes rice contains fluid),pasta it really does add up. And then you have to eat differently, always monitoring what you eat. It's not easy.All I ask is for a day off.I am all for stem cell research if it means one day I will get a day off

Uday Lakhani, Borehamwood, UK

I am a diabetic, and life is not easy at all, I take pills to control my diabetes and cannot have any form of sugar at all. I have to also control my food intake, and I am not sure when the doctors will start me on insulin. I have to go for regular blood tests for my kidneys etc. I hope not to have my limbs amputated or suffer any adverse effects from diabetes. It would be great if there is a cure for some of us but I have my doubts my mother waited all her life for a cure and it never came, she died at the age of 63 2 years ago from colon cancer which is common among long term diabetics. It would be great if the world worked together and found a cure. I carry genes and this desease is hereditary, even if there is no cure during my lifetime I hope there will be one for my sons [age 14 & 11] during their lifetime and their children wont have to suffer. 5 to 8 years is great but I hope it will be affordable especially for us in Asia. God Bless those who have worked towards this cure.

Sharan Pretam Singh , Seremban , Malaysia

We (U.S.) is fighting a war in Iraq and Afghanistan that it may not win. Here is a chance for the U.S. to fight a war on Diabetes and WIN for a lot less money and loss of life.
This sounds like a WIN-WIN situation. What are we waiting for?

Louie, Central, Hong Kong

I've had diabetes since I was 13 months old, I'm now 19 years old. It's absolute hell!!! I can totally understand what other diabetics go through and cannot wait for this treatment to come out properly, so it can end the pain and stress of having this endless disease, which affects all other aspects of life. President Bush doesn't have a clue on what is right and wrong (as has been proven by Iraq and the Kyoto Agreement), as long as Britain sees sense then hopefully the rest of the world will too in that this treatment can send not only the mass problem of diabetes, but also have a major impact on other diseases such as parkinsons and cancer.

Manveer Sahota, London,

I have had diabetes for 37 (going on 38 years). I am disabled. I think I have a right to this opinion. NO-ONE HAS TO DIE TO CURE THIS DISEASE! There is encouraging research about SAFE, CONTROLLABLE, adult stem cells.
Too many "embryonic" cells are volitile. They cannot be controlled. I CERTAINLY would not want a bone or a foot growing in what was supposed to be my new pancreas.
If I can wait, so can others. JUST TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF! Hang in there and pray.

Liz Taylor, Lakeville, USA/ Minnesota

My son has been diabetic(type 1)since he was 6. He is now 14. I was soo happy to see this and then after watching the news I heard president Bush said that he wold never approve this. He will veto it as soon as it hits his desk. It makes me angry.

trina, vancouver, wa

I'm a type 1 diabetic man and I hate it. I've got this damned disease when I was 2, now I'm 27 and this my life makes me sick. Can stem-cell treatment cure this pain? I really hope, so I could feel good and happy. Do not waste the time, cure this disease in any manner and give the real life back to the wide diabetics world. Waiting any cure...

Pino, Rome, Italy

I'm informed by my wife (a nurse ) theat embryonic stem cells may be gathered from cord blood during pregnancy which is shed anyway. This would bring no harm to the woman. I have type 1 diabetes- it sucks- . .
If you knew how it affects peoples lives you would
STOP MORALISING.
bring on the cure

Jon Meakin, Wollongong, Australia

I'm a type one diabetic, and I've had diabetes for a little over 12 yrs. I'd say that I've had it for about 12 yrs., and two months. Anyways, I was diagnosed the day after my first birthday, and ever sinse life has been hard!!! I was doing ok wile I was little, but when I got older I became independent, and after my dad deployed (he's military) everything just went down hill. I wasn't taking care of myself the way that I should have been, I was eating whatever, and not paying very much attention to my medical needs. To sum it all up, I was wondering if this would be something that would help me at all, or if it is to late.

Bianca, McChord, WA/USA

I've read several articles lately touting embryonic stem cell research, even though every example of successful treatment they cite is from so called ADULT stem cells. There are over 70 diseases that have been treated or cured using adult stem cells, and only tumors and mutations from embryonic ones. If the politicians and scientists who claim they want to help people really do, why do they keep beating a dead horse? The answer is clearly adult stem cells, which are readily available from our own bodies. No objections on moral grounds, less money, actual treatments now, not down the road somewhere, and everyone should be happy. One has to wonder what devious reason proponents of embryonic stem cell research have? May I also point out that embryonic stem cells must be harvested from women. That can be dangerous, even life threatening, but if poor women are being paid for their eggs, will anyone know or care if they suffer as a result? Let's stick with adult stem cells-they work.

Carol, Inver Grove, MN

As a mother of a 6 year old type 1, your views on stem cell research would change if this (or another) disease directly affected your own life. I was not completely on board with it myself until 2 years ago when my son was diagnosed. Stem cells may actually be the answer to finding a cure for my son and others like him. I can't be against it anymore... my sons future depends on it. This disease can hit anyone at anytime. It is spreading rapidly also. If you had to watch it, live with it, or deal with it everyday, you would want only the best for your loved one. My son did nothing to deserve this...he deserves a future like everyone else. He is controlled, but controlling is not a cure. Lets just say if the shoe was on your foot instead of mine, wouldn't you want your child to have a long bright future. You would. Young or old, I feel for everyone living with this disease. I hope a cure comes soon. We are very hopeful and are encouraged by all the efforts being made.

Christine Schwan, Kingwood, Texas,

my daughter has been diagnosed with type 1 for almost 7 years can this procedure help her she has been in and out of the hospitle 8 times in the last year and a half. she is only 19 and I pray that she lives long enough to be cured!!
desperate in florida

cathy martin, port st lucie, usa florida

What's the matter, Dan from Hampton? Does it bother you when us "flat earthers" point out a little thing we like to call facts?
There is lots of private money going into non-embryonic stem cell research, but very little going toward embryonic. No surprise to me. Money goes where there is the most promise of rewards. If embryonic stem cells were the panacea the activists claim, investors would be falling all over themselves to get their foot, their money, in the door.
The problem with embryonic stem cells is that they are too powerful. They divide out of our control. We call that cancer. We have much greater control of the more differentiated adult stem cells. That control has contributed to actual effective treatments.
There are 75+ demonstrably effective treatments created from non-embryonic stem cells. TMK, there has yet to be even 1 effective treatment derived from embryonic stem cells.

Ed, Goshen, IN

People in the US have to stop the fundamentalis religious force feeding, and concentrate on finding cures for disease. Whether these cures come from embryonic, adult, cow or pig stem cells! It is interesting how people change their point of view on stem cell research once their loved ones are the ones affected.
Maybe the best thing to happen is for Bush's daughters to get diabetes!

Maggie, Denver, Colorado

I believe that adult stem cell research is great, but I want to know if it can help people like me who have had diabetes for over a decade. If it could help people like me, who have had it for many years, and have trouble keeping control of their glucose levels, it should be exploited in hopes of saving people's lives.

Nathan Lewis, Georgetown, USA, OH

What most people don't understand is it is not so much George Bush and congress stopping stem cell research as it is the pharmacutical companies who are contributers to these political parties who don't want stem cell research. Look at it this way, if a disease is cured the pharmacutical companies stand to loose billions of dollars. Why si it with todays technology and research that we haven't cured a disease in over 50 years. Polio was the last to be wiped out and that cure was developed in 1955 and it was completely gone by the 1990's. Since the pharmacutical companies have been in power there hasn't been a disease cured, there have been many breakthroughs and advances (all having to do with new medications to limit effects) which in turns makes these companies more money. Don't get me wrong, I'm a diabetic and love the insulin pen and other advances, but it would be nice if the motivatiion wasn't to keep people alive by controlling the symtoms instead of eraticating the problem

Rob, Nashua, NH

The choice is ours - we can choose to publicly fund basic scientific research into overcoming inherant safety and technical problems involved in embryonic stem cell usage (rejection, tumor formation, epigenetic instability), or we can develop adult stem cell and cord blood medical uses.

However, if we attempt to do both we must face the reality that directing massive funds and research resources towards overcoming ES cell safety issues will considerably delay the availability of adult stem cell and cord blood treatments. This point is especially relevant considering the prioritization of America's NIH for "scientifically interesting" basic research over "applied" or "pre-clinical" research.

Simply put, it's hugely impractical for non-ES research that's on the verge of clinical testing - research aimed at treating Diabetes I&II, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, SCI, Stroke, ALS, etc. - to be delayed thru having to compete for limited funds with long range basic ES research.

James P. Kelly, Manitou Springs, USA/Colorado

Please note that Bush has not outlawed or banned stem cell research in America. He is opposed to federal funding of stem cell research - so am I, but not for religious or moral reasons. All of the companies receiving this funding are going to charge exorbitant prices for any so-called "cure" the come up with. Why should I pay to fund research for treatments that I will never likely be able to afford? If these companies are going to reap all the financial reward then they should assume all of the financial risk as well.

Gary, Murfreesboro, TN

Those who oopse embryonic research say all the breakthroughs are with adult cells. Well of course - it's like a footrace where one runner has been tied at the ankles. Who would you expect to be ahead? The runner with unbound ankles - i.e. the adult cell research. But ask them if they would like to untie the other runner and make it a fair race. The answer is no. They WANT the race to be unbalanced in favor of adult stem cell research. Which is fine, but at least be honest enough to admit that a) the comparison between achievements in adult v. embryonic research is out of balance because of the restrictions placed on embryonic research, and b) you are invested in making sure that we never do find out what embryonic cells might be capable of accomplishing. That would at least be honest.
-the Father of a suffering ten year old with diabetes

R, Midwest, America

I hope everyone notices what kind of stem cell treatment is being used here, ADULT stem cells. Not embryonic. This just helps prove that embryonic is still showing no results while adult stem cells are helping 72 different diseases and is now curing diabetics.

Curtis, Davis, CA

People, please: read the article. Parapgraphs 2 and 3 clearly state that the cells were the patient's own.

R, Midwest, America

The diabetics were not "cured" . Out of 15, 14 were able to go without insulin for from one to 35 months. What is their condition now? Sounds to me like Dennis Turner's Parkinson's cure where his PD came back after 3-4 years. Unless the etiology (cause) of these diseases is known, cell replacement in itself is not going to do it. Also, Turner's treatment involved brain surgery while awake. Diabetics had "chemo"-like treatment. Do you think such treatments will ever become routine??

Rayilyn Brown, Surprise, USA/Arizona

I am a nurse who works in clinical research. I also have Type 1 diabetes. I am very excited about this and the many other advances that are currently in the research phase. There is so much promise with adult stem cells that I don't think that we should take the downward step of messing with the humanity of the embryo. One day we may come to our senses as a nation and stop the insanity of condoning abortions.
This probably is not the final cure, but we've come a long way!

D.W., Aurora, CO

Stem Cell research needs to be aggressively pursued. Those who would bring religion into this controversy seem to think that their religious beliefs should impact all the rest of us. If they are not interested in this type of cure they may opt out of any treatment which results from the research. To imply that all of us need to adhere to their beliefs is mind boggling it reminds me of the Taliban. Let’s get the truth out and shout down these religious morons. My family has several diabetics and the ultimate price we each pay is death. The stem cells in question do not represent any conscious living being not even the hope of becoming a conscious living being yet they want to attribute them with feelings and apply a moral standard akin to forcing women to wear the berka or stoning them for some real or imagined transgression. Tell your congressman to support non-interference with scientific research.

Tom Walker, Detroit, Michigan

Hey,

We expect your article to at the least, present the facts. These cures are coming from the patient's own stem cells - often referred to as adult stem cell treatment.

The misdirected comments you make in the article are represented by the first two comments above. The US should provide the monies - are these people aware that embryonic stem cells, to date, have not caused one cure. The promise of potential cures by the State of California has been expanded from the original 10 years to the current 15 years. That should have everyone excited! Adult stem cells have currently been effective in treating some 78 different aliments.

We all need to know and understand the difference between the two cells - the reason for all the concern of the embryonic stem cell is that it requires killing the created life.

Domenic, Richmond,, Virginia

the JAMA article refers to use of adult stem cell in this study, not embryonic stem cells which is the issue being debated in the United States currently. This article shamelessly omits this fact in order to confuse readers into thinking that embryonic stem cell research has provided a break through when it has not.

Dennis Parks, Kansas city, United States

Bushes answer is all you would expect-Brilliant news for any new diabetic. Us older ones will have to wait a bit longer. God gave us the scietists-lets benefit from them

Dave W Danson, Southampton, U.K.

Finally, some more real progress. If US scientists were not handcuffed by political pressure we might already have a cure right here.

Darrell, Orlando, FL

Prof Stephanie Amiel and her team at Kings College were the first to "cure" a type 1 diabetic in the UK. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4330717.stm
For the time being, her team's research on islets transplants relies on the use of immuno-suppressant drugs which are highly toxic. The technique has also been used successfully in some 60 cases in Canada. Currently, the toxicity of the drugs must be balanced with the severity of the diabetes to ensure that there is a net gain for the patient. Added to which, the healthy islets cells must be recovered from cadavers which are in limited supply. The real breakthrough, as I understand it, will be achieved when synthetic islets can be manufactured. This will address supply issues and obviate the need for toxic drugs. As a type 1 diabetic of 35 years, I am in awe of the fantastic progress made by the research teams and look forward to the day, hopefully in just a few years' time, when islets transplants are safe and freely available.

Alex Blake-Milton, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Embryonic stem cell research gets more money than adult stem cell research and has provided NO benefits. It also involves the destruction of a human life, and the fact that we stupidly allowed extra embryos to be created in fertility clinics doesn't change the immoral nature of treating nascent human life like "spare parts."

ESCR causes cancer in test subjects--nasty, hair and tissue teratomas! Would you like a hair meatball growing in your brain? No thank you, I think I'll stick with the plain, vanilla, Parkinson's disease!

In order to get ESCR to work they will have to change the natural way ESCs work. Meanwhile, adult stem cells already work in a wide variety of situations (diabetes, heart, nerve repair).

Come on people, the choice is not that hard!

Judith M., Brainerd, MN

Thank you for an incredibly detailed article. It's the best I've read. I have a 10 year old, Type 1 son who was diagnosed just over a year ago.
One question I have is: How early into the diagnosis can this procedure be done? Are we too late??
I'd love to contact Dr. Julio Voltarelli from the University of Sao Paolo to see if my son could be in their next study?
How would I contact him? Anyone know?
Thanks!

Rachel Kushner, Glen Mills, PA/USA

Thank god for all the outsourcing - bravo to Brazil for taking this necessary step in finging the cure. Maybe if the US Gov't should provide the Brazilian Dr's a one time grant of $28 Billion Annual (US Expenditure.on the disease) to find the cure. Of course the airlines would not be able to handle all the flights that would be booked to Brazil.

Been waiting for the "cure" since 1967, which "was only" 3-5 years away, so do not hold your breath.


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Pete, Brea, USA

This advance in medical science again comes from ADULT...not embryonic...stem cells.

Let's continue to choose life.

Wendy, Dallas,