The legislation, H.R. 3, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, is identical to legislation which was passed in both the House and Senate during the 109^th Congress (2005-2006), by a strong bi-partisan majority, but was vetoed by President Bush.

Baltimore’s John Kellerman, a Parkinson’s advocate, participated in the call, "I'm a Republican and a Catholic, but because of my personal situation, I have taken the time to research and understand this issue, and I believe we need the federal government to provide funding so that researchers can find a cure."

Because of the Parkinson's progression in his body and the need for deep brain stimulation surgery, John was forced to retire from his job as a loan officer in 2001.

“I urge each House member to join in support of this potentially life-saving legislation and send a strong message that limiting potential in science is unacceptable,” said Amy L. Comstock, CEO, PAN.

Newly elected Rep. Jason Altmire (D-P.A.), participating in the call, discussed his first major vote in the House, “As a pro-life Democrat, I can’t think of a more important pro-life vote than to vote yes for embryonic stem cell research.”

More than 100 million Americans suffer from Parkinson’s, cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, spinal cord injuries and other debilitating diseases and disorders for which embryonic stem cell research holds great promise in finding new and better treatments and cures. Those individuals, along with their families, friends and caregivers, look to the 110th Congress to take a stand and vote for federal funding for and oversight of embryonic stem cell research.

The Senate is expected to take up the legislation in the coming weeks.