Yes, and yes-- and when positive, disease-curing, results prove valid, those who are opposed can choose not to participate in these procedures. The opponents can watch the ill be relieved of physical suffering and go on thinking that those who have been cured will be punished by the Lord.  Those opponents who are ill themselves or have ill family members or ill friends and will not waver in their opposition, even to save themselves or those they love, can die and watch those who are dearest to them die. It's fine.

I'm confident that many of the opponents to (embryonic) stem cell research do not understand that these embryos are created for the express purpose of in-vitro fertilization, and that not all of these embryos are implanted.  While some of these people may also be opposed to IVF, I can't name the number of holier-than-thous who can overcome their opposition to it if it means a baby for them.

This is a quote from this discussion board on religion/spirituality regarding Christianity and IVF:

"After chatting with another woman at my church who is also TTC (3 years now) she also battles the same thoughts - Christianity vs IVF. She seems to think that providing its Gods voice that your hearing when you use IVF, then it is okay."

True, there's no indication that these women would be opposed to (embryonic) stem cell research, but it demonstrates a certain self-centeredness in this view-- God is telling this woman "Well, normally, I'm absolutely ripshit about the destruction of embryos, but for you..." ?   What?

I don't believe in a talking God.  I don't believe in a God who is concerned about these matters, who makes "just this once" personal exceptions.  I do believe in a force that governs the universe, that keeps things in order, that gives and takes.  This other stuff is just self-serving crap.  A baby is not a miracle of faith.  A baby is a miracle of science.  All of our bodies are. 

And if we're talking about blocking the use of umbilical cords and foreskins, and medical waste that holds no real controversy and you're still opposed, please stop breeding.  Please.  For all of us.