Stem cells have already shown promise in repairing human livers and they could hold the cure for Parkinson's, spinal cord injuries and even brain damage, from Alzheimer's to stroke. One mystery to the stem cell puzzle is determining what causes stem cells to switch on and form one tissue or another. Some studies have shown the cells have the ability to seek out damaged tissue and rush to the scene to fix it. The real controversy is over the use of fetal cells. The Bush administration has considered pulling research funding because the cells are harvested from aborted fetuses or unwanted embryos.
Some parents choose to store their children's cord blood privately but the cost can be prohibitive.
Stem cells can also be harvested from bone marrow but extraction can be painful and requires exact matching. Studies show that fat Americans spend millions have suctioned away actually contains a gold mine of potentially life saving material and right now, it's being thrown away. Researchers are confident they'll continue discovering new donor sites. They say we're on the cusp of a medical revolution that is already saving and extending lives. CBS 2 checked with Dana's family and learned she continues to make progress.