Carew Backs Stem Cell Banking and Research

Rod Carew was a great Major League Baseball player. The former Twins and Angels infielder is well-remembered for his tremendous bat control and uncanny ability to create base hits (he collected over 3,000).

Although millions remember Carew as a skilled batsmen, many don't know about some of the personal challenges with which he dealt--many of which were certainly tougher to handle than a Ron Guidry slider or a Goose Gossage heater.

The death of his daughter, Michelle, from leukemia is an example. Carew, however, met the challenge. In fact, he's been an active force in research and treatment, honoring his daughter's legacy.

Now, Carew is backing the use of umbilical cord blood, rich in stem cells, as a potential means of combating leukemia.

Carew puts his position into perspective:

"This technology -- with the cord blood and placenta, the stem cells -- when I first had my children if it was available I probably would have joined up and Michelle would probably be alive today," said Carew. "I am happy we are trying to get this message out to expectant parents."

You can read the full report from WCCO here.