In closing out its 18th year the Michigan Society for Medical Research (MISMR) is not only one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the United States but is Michigan’s only organization whose mission is to promote understanding of the use of animals in biomedical research, teaching, and testing. As one of the founding members I have seen MISMR expand its efforts from a reactive organization, one that came to life when the “other side” created an issue, to one that is pro-active through educational efforts in both the public arena and through its activities with Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees. Over the years MISMR has provided its Resource Guide to over 1200 Michigan public school libraries, provided information to Michigan Congressional leaders by way of door-to-door canvassing and through mailings, has published disease-specific brochures, provided speakers and displays for meetings across the state, sponsored annual meetings on topics important to a great many research organizations, developed and maintained a website, and has sponsored a very popular and successful essay contest for middle and high school age Michiganians.

With all of this activity, you might assume the MISMR staff and budget have grown substantially during these 18 years of service. However, such is not the case. For over a decade MISMR has operated with a single, part-time, hard working Executive Director. And, except for some very generous contributions from member organizations, the income side of the ledger has not seen a significant increase in many years. So how has MISMR been able to expand its programs and move forward through the years. The answer is a “boat load” of concerned, very dedicated, very talented volunteers. Like many of the animal activist’s organizations, MISMR has maintained a grass roots base. Our members are individuals who recognize the great benefits that have been and will be derived from animal research. They also realize the fact that the public does not necessarily make the connection between animal research and the benefits to human health, and that the animal activist will capitalize on their lack of understanding to perpetuate their agenda. For these reasons MISMR has survived and grown and for these reasons MISMR must continue to grow.

Continue to grow? YES! The revolution in biology brought about by our understanding of molecular biology and genetic mechanisms has caused an explosion of knowledge. Whole new fields have developed like bioinformatics, the human genome project and, very importantly, the mouse genome project which is following close behind. Much of what has been learned is the result of genetic manipulations in mice and other animals. What is learned in basic research rapidly finds application in genetically manipulated animal models. These sophisticated models are invaluable for studying diseases of humans and animals and for evaluating potential cures. The more we know the more opportunities exist to study and to provide cures for diseases and, again, the need for using animals will grow. Organizations like MISMR must be vigilant to assure that scientists can continue the humane use of animals.

How will we grow? The Board will continue to seek funding from members and other sources. Looking at the budgets of several national activist’s organizations, we see they have been very successful in garnering financial support. We can only hope to do that well. Where we have and can make a difference, again, is with our members and volunteers. MISMR speaks for a group of individuals with tremendous ability and talent. What we have accomplished to date has been possible through these people. To grow we need to enlist more of the same kind of individuals. Remember, according to the animal activists “a rat is a pig is a boy” — is also a mouse.

MISMR’s boat is at the dock. We are ready to load it up. We need you and your colleagues to join us in helping us to achieve our mission.

Gary L. Hofing, D.V.M., Ph.D.
President, MISMR

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