Adult stem cell therapy for heart disease highlights the tragedy of checkbook medicine September 13, 2007

Tim’s wife had no intention of being a widow. “Just because we couldn’t write a check didn’t mean his life was worthless,” she said. Thanks to the generosity of their family and friends the Raleigh, North Carolina couple was able to go to Thailand in January of 2006, where Tim had a small amount of his blood drawn. This was then sent to TheraVitae’s laboratory where the stem cells that could help improve the blood supply to his heart were isolated and multiplied by many millions. These were then injected back into his blocked blood vessels by a simple angiocatheter procedure.

“The whole experience – the TheraVitae stem cell company, Bangkok, the hospital - was one of the best we have ever had. You will never find better people. I wish the doctors and the nurses in the U.S. were like that. We felt we were the most important people and I was able to stay with my husband during the procedure and afterwards while he was in intensive care – we were never separated. No-one will ever regret going to Thailand,” Robin said. “Tim would not be alive today if he did not go for stem cell treatment.

Three months later Tim was back working part-time, almost free of chest pain and mowing his lawns. His cardiologist was absolutely certain that his decrease in angina and improved energy and quality of life was because of the stem cell therapy. He had two more stents inserted last August to further improve blood flow to his heart but now his cardiologist wants him to return for a second stem cell treatment so that he can derive even more benefit.

The tragedy is that this couple has to start fundraising all over again. They can not get the medical help they need at home. Millions of people are excluded from stem cell treatment and a greatly improved quality of life because they can not write out a check. This couple are typical of those who need and deserve help but who are reliant on the goodwill and kindness of others to make that happen.

People who would like to help Tim and Robin can call them at 919-250-9698 (cell) or email them at jerzgirl015@yahoo.com