[indigogo]

Dr. Clive Svendsen's research group at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles received a grant last week from the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) for GDNF research in ALS. The grant was predicated on assistance from Amgen. Dr. Svendsen used to be at the University of Wisconsin, where he conducted GDNF research for PD until Amgen pulled out. Dr. Svendsen was a strong patient advocate during the "GDNF war"

Greg & AJ Wasson and I were in the room when the award was announced to great fanfare, including confetti!! Several moving testimonials were given by people suffering from ALS.

We were there because the Wassons were scheduled to testify on behalf of a different grant for PD (unfortunately, we were there for 8 hours before they decided to table that particular discussion, and we were sent home without getting to give the pitch - but that's another story!)

But we were able to congratulate Dr. Svendsen himself - he told Greg that "Parkinson's was next!"

We were also able to visit with Joan Samuelson!! who serves on the CIRM board of directors. She shows the wear of 20+ years with PD, but is talking, walking, and as lively and sharp as ever - still making a difference and advocating for people with PD!! A remarkable woman and true pioneer!

Here's an article about the grant award

http://www.newswise.com/articles/ced...-als-treatment