Jessica Doyle Touts Stem Cell Research

Flanked by two families who have found hope in the promise of stem cell research, first lady Jessica Doyle kicked off the 2006 Dem convention Friday afternoon speaking to reporters on the need for the "life-saving" research.

"We see great potential for cures with embryonic (stem cell) research," said Doyle, highlighting differences between her husband and his GOP opponent, U.S. Rep. Mark Green. The Republican opposes an expansion of embryonic stem cell research beyond the lines President Bush approved funding in 2001.

Doyle said many of the embryos used in the research are left over from in vitro fertilizations.

“These are cells that would be disregarded anyway,” said Doyle. “People chose to donate these.”

Green has complained Democrats are distorting his record on stem cell research.

See Green's release: http://www.wispolitics.com/index.iml?Article=64195

Jim Shatto, a quadriplegic with Type 1 diabetes was joined by his wife, Deb, at the conference, as were David Strom and his mother, Jane Oie.

Strom, 35, has had a new pancreas implanted, as well as three kidneys as a result of living with diabetes since he was 8 years old. He says the doctors never told him he would live past 20.

"I love being joined in the fight by Jim Doyle," said Strom, who added that only embryonic cells can be manipulated to find cures for certain diseases.

"To have some hope for him would be so wonderful," said Strom’s mother.