Chris Smith: “H.R. 2820 authorizes $265 million over 5 years and will ensure that thousands of present-day and future patients benefit…”

“H.R. 2820 authorizes $265 million over 5 years and will ensure that thousands of present-day and future patients benefit from this exciting field of regenerative medicine. We have only just begun. This legislation furthers that work. And again, I thank my colleagues for this bipartisan support. Mr. Speaker, Maalik was diagnosed with Hurler Syndrome at 15 months old--a rare and life-threatening metabolic disorder. He had a curved spine and could not walk. After receiving an umbilical cord blood transplant facilitated through the Carolina Blood Bank, Maalik is running around and expected to have a normal lifespan. His mother Krystal told the Herald Sun newspaper in North Carolina, ``My son is extremely happy now . . . He's energetic, and more independent. The transplant saved his life.'' In like manner, bone marrow donations provide lifesaving transplants to treat diseases like blood cancer or inherited metabolic or immune system disorders. Clara was only 4 months old when she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. John had registered with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) Be the Match as a bone marrow donor when Clara was only 17 days old. It turned out he was a perfect match for Clara. John's donation saved Clara's life, she is now a thriving 2 year old. Valentina was 10 months old and only 13 pounds--and diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Her doctor treated her with chemotherapy followed by a cord blood transplant.…”