The stem cells retain the ability to become many or all of the different cell types in the body and they play a critical role in repairing organs and body tissues throughout life. When we sought this debate I knew very little about the subject but I researched and debated it over the weekend and read many good articles setting out the views for an against it. I recently read about Christopher Reeve, the Hollywood actor, who suffered a nasty fall eight years ago. He has set up a wonderful foundation that supports research in paraplegia and for those who suffer from severed, broken or damaged spinal tissue. He has made remarkable improvements in his condition and has committed himself to walk again before a certain age. It is remarkable when one reads how determined and hopeful he is. The established research foundation is worth millions of dollars per annum. There are a number of leading scientists involved who pool financially from this resource and conduct research for people like Christopher Reeve. However, it brings us back to the ethical question.