D.C. Americans for Medical Progress presented Albert B. Sabin Heroes of Science Awards to seven individuals who have made significant contributions to biomedical research pioneers in vaccine development and transplant surgery, parents who have through their family s tragedy created a strong force to combat genetic disease, and public officials who work to ensure that biomedical research remains a national priority. The awards were presented at a reception at the Carnegie Institution of Washington April 6. Americans for Medical Progress supports the biomedical research community through its public affairs campaigns designed to build understanding of the necessity and humane nature of scientists work with laboratory animals.
Biomedical research offers hope.
That hope is rooted in the work of men and women such as the Heroes of Science we recognize tonight. In recognition of the 40th anniversary of the introduction of the oral polio vaccine, and well as for her strong support of biomedical research, Heloisa Sabin, widow of Dr. Albert Sabin, received a special Hero of Science Award in a surprise presentation at the end of the reception. All three of the Frohnmayers daughters were born with Fanconi anemia, an inherited, usually fatal illness which causes bone marrow failure and often leukemia. Two of their daughters, Kirsten and Katie, have died from complications of the disease. Dave Frohnmayer is President of the University of Oregon and currently serves on the Director s Council of Public Representatives for the National Institutes of Health.