October 5, 1984 
Director, Office of Recombinant DNA Activities 
Building 31/ Room 3B10 
National Institutes of Health 
Bethesda/ MD 20205 
Dear Director: 
I am writing in response to Mr. Jeremy Rif kin's proposed 
amendment to the National Institute of Health's Guidelines 
for Research involving Recombinant DNA Molecules as outlined 
in the September 20/ 1984 Federal Register. 
I am very concerned that Mr. Rifkin's proposal does not take 
into consideration the discontinuance of important medical 
research relative to genetic disorders, cancer and other 
diseases. I am specifically interested in the continuation 
of this research as it relates to a rare genetic disease 
known as Metachromatic Leukodystrophy. I am familiar with 
the Downard family in Athens, Ohio who have two young 
children with this particular disease. It is my 
understanding that this research is currently the most 
viable possibility for cure or treatment for these two and 
many other children suffering from genetic diseases. 
I strongly urge the committee not to adopt the proposed 
amendment and instead continue the funding for Recombinant 
DNA Activities Research. 
Sincerely, 
SIMILAR LETTERS WERE ALSO RECEIVED FROM THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS: 
Patty Harden 
13865 Nichle Plate 
Logan, OH 43138 
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