There is power in a single voice. I am always reminded of that whenever I meet a patient advocate and hear them talk about the need for treatments and cures – and not just for their particular disease but for everyone. The passion and commitment they display in advocating for more research funding reflects the … Continue reading Share your voice, shape our future
Patient Advocacy
International stem cell group offers much needed guidance for patients and families
Yesterday the International Society for Stem Cell Research launched a greatly expanded website for the public. While the site, “Closer Look at Stem Cells,” offers a broad overview of stem cell science, the group launched it out of concern stem cell treatments are being marketed by clinics around the world without appropriate oversight and patient … Continue reading International stem cell group offers much needed guidance for patients and families
The best tools to be the best advocate
It’s hard to do a good job if you don’t have the right tools. And that doesn’t just apply to fixing things around the house, it applies to all aspects of life. So, in launching our new website this week we didn’t just want to provide visitors to the site with a more enjoyable and … Continue reading The best tools to be the best advocate
2015 Golden Globes shines light on Alzheimer’s and ALS with acting awards
In between the one-liners, surprise presenters and bottomless champagne, something remarkable happened at last night’s 72nd Golden Globe Awards. 26 awards were given last night to the best in film and television. But two in particular were especially meaningful. I am referring, of course, to Julianne Moore and Eddie Redmayne, who each took home awards … Continue reading 2015 Golden Globes shines light on Alzheimer’s and ALS with acting awards
Stem Cell Stories that Caught Your Eye: The Most Popular Stem Cellar Stories of 2014
2014 marked an extraordinary year for regenerative medicine and for CIRM. We welcomed a new president, several of our research programs have moved into clinical trials—and our goal of accelerating treatments for patients in need is within our grasp. As we look back we’d like to revisit The Stem Cellar’s ten most popular stories of … Continue reading Stem Cell Stories that Caught Your Eye: The Most Popular Stem Cellar Stories of 2014
Bringing out the Big Guns: Scientists Weigh in on How Best to Combat Deadly Diseases of the Brain
Despite our best efforts, diseases of the brain are on the rise. Neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases threaten not only to devastate our aging population, but also cripple our economy. Meanwhile, the causes of conditions such as autism remain largely unknown. And brain and spinal cord injuries continue to increase—leaving their victims … Continue reading Bringing out the Big Guns: Scientists Weigh in on How Best to Combat Deadly Diseases of the Brain
New Videos: Living with Crohn’s Disease and Working Towards a Stem Cell Therapy
Note: the two videos below are also available on our website She doesn’t want your sympathy. She doesn’t want your admiration. She just wants your understanding. Rachel Bonner, a sixteen-year-old high school student and founder of the Hope for Crohn’s charity, spoke to the CIRM governing Board on September 10th about what it’s like living … Continue reading New Videos: Living with Crohn’s Disease and Working Towards a Stem Cell Therapy
FDA gives Asterias green light to start CIRM-funded clinical trial in spinal cord injury
This morning Asterias Biotherapeutics announced that they have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to start a clinical trial using stem cells to treat spinal cord injury. It’s great news, doubly so as we are funding that trial. You can read more about the trial in a news release we just sent … Continue reading FDA gives Asterias green light to start CIRM-funded clinical trial in spinal cord injury
A life long battle with Parkinson’s disease earns Dr. David Higgins a place on our Board
As a child David Higgins imagined that the reason his grandmother wouldn’t talk to him was because of something he did, some fault of his. In time he came to realize that the reason was because his grandmother had Parkinson’s disease and she had trouble communicating with, not just him, but with everyone. It was … Continue reading A life long battle with Parkinson’s disease earns Dr. David Higgins a place on our Board
Chris Furbee’s Autobiographical Huntington’s disease film wins Slamdance Film Fest Award
Huntington's Dance interview subject Gene Furbee (L) and film director Chris Furbee Did you hear that loud cheer last Friday morning? Maybe your floor shook a little bit? That was the CIRM staff celebrating a big win for Huntington’s disease (HD) patient advocate Chris Furbee and the HD community in general. This past week, Chris’ … Continue reading Chris Furbee’s Autobiographical Huntington’s disease film wins Slamdance Film Fest Award
The Stem Cellar 