LETTERS

From the issue of April 3, 2003.

Class thanks local businesses
To the editor:
   The Bordentown Regional High School Class of 1997 and its reunion committee would like to thank the following local businesses for their generous donations: Artist Mike Budden, Betty Ann’s Hair Care, Bordentown Bagels, By The Book @ U & I Gifts, Bassani’s Restaurant, Designing Woman, High Maintenance, Jay Kay Wines & Liquor, Marcello’s Restaurant, Oliver — A Bistro, Peppler Funeral Home, RW Tire Inc. and Tastefully Made, LCC Chocolates.
Pat Mazurek
Columbus
Let’s endorse stem cell research
To the editor:
   I am sending this in the hope that people may better understand the importance of passing stem cell research legislation in New Jersey and its downstream potential for those suffering with a debilitating disease.
   While politically I view myself as a moderate, not unlike many New Jersey legislators, I also consider myself well-versed in the political process due to my position as a government affairs director with a large corporation.
   Unfortunately, with that recognition comes the understanding of just how hard advocating passage of this bill will be to many elected officials.
   Most members of the Legislature who will ultimately vote on this bill will not have the perspective I currently possess.
   That is due to the fact that I have recently been diagnosed with Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease at the age of 49.
   However, even prior to my diagnosis, I was a silent supporter of this research for reasons I alone needed to be comfortable with.
   I would like to sensitize those responsible for the fate of any stem cell bill to the very real feelings of disbelief, despair and abject terror at learning what is projected as my potential future.
   While I am not fully versed on the science of this topic, I have spoken at length to my doctors at the Pennsylvania Hospital Neurological Center and to other clinicians in this field of research.
   During those discussions it became quite obvious that stem cell research offers tremendous potential in developing possible cures to a number of debilitating diseases and not merely addressing the symptoms.
   More importantly, it offers real hope to those afflicted.
   As time goes on and I become more informed, I plan to advocate as strongly and intelligently as I can to all politicians, at all levels, in positions of leadership.
   I am starting with this open letter to inform people who may know me, or have other friends or relatives with this disease, to call their legislator(s) and voice their support.
   It seems that only when you can put an actual face to a disease does it become real. In my case, the face is mine and this is very, very real.
   Perhaps when politicians have taken the time to consider all aspects of this issue, and there are many, they will remember their decisions are impacting people like myself who are counting on their compassion, understanding and leadership to do the right thing, not the politically expedient one.
   I hope this correspondence has proven helpful in understanding the reality of someone newly diagnosed with a life-altering disease, and the associated magnitude of the decision making process required of our elected officials.
Brian Stark
Bordentown
Please send his son postcards
To the editor:
   I have a 10-year-old son that is living with spina bifida and he is collecting new postcards.
   I would like to know if people could send him a postcard of their town or state. Also, would you mind passing his name and address on to other folks, please?
   Please send the cards to Robbie Riley II, 1700 8th Ave. W., Lot 21, International Falls, MN 56649.
   Thank you all for your time and help.
Bob Riley
International Falls, Minn.