At least Chinese are trying to help

To the editor:

Every morning when I get the paper, I look for any article concerning Jim Trickey and his treatment for ALS in China. Evidently, Michael W. Thies has never seen what ALS does to a person. In May 1998, my beautiful 41-year-old daughter passed away from ALS.

I am a Christian and do not believe in abortion. But, from what I know of this, these stem cells were thrown away. So instead of trashing these cells, the Chinese are trying to help people with this horrible disease.

I watched my daughter change. She was a smiling, loving person who enjoyed teaching and worked so hard to get her master's degree at Southeast Missouri State University. At 36 years old she was told she had ALS with five years to live. Believe me, had this treatment been available then we would have done anything to get her to China. I believe others who have written against this would have too if they were facing sure death or a chance for a few more months or years with their families.

My daughter went to Memphis and New Orleans to take part in an experimental drug. It turned out she was on a placebo. This country is doing nothing for ALS.

I pray for Mr. Trickey and Mr. Landewee every day. For those who are critical of this, please remember that but for the grace of God, it could be you.

SALLY WHITE, Cape Girardeau