Mandira Bedi to endorse stem cell bank

New Delhi, June 2 (IANS) Anchor-actress Mandira Bedi, who is expecting her first child, was Thursday appointed the official brand-ambassador of Cryo-Save, a stem cell bank. In her new role, she will be involved in various strategic communication initiatives as part of an extensive brand campaign for the company.

Mandira, who married filmmaker Raj Kaushal 12 years ago, said she recently learned about the benefits of stem cell therapy, and wants to promote it.

'Parents take various steps to ensure safe and secure future of their child. One small, but very significant step towards securing the health of your child is by storing the stem cells of your new-born,' Mandira said in a press statement.

'It wasn't until recently that I was made aware of the benefits of stem cells. They can be used to treat various life-threatening diseases. Banking of stem cells is the best gift, which the parents can give to their child. It gives me immense pleasure to associate with Cryo-Save in spreading this awareness across India,' she added.

Stem cells, usually found in bone marrow and umbilical cords, are the master cells responsible for producing all the mature cells - red, white, and platelets - in human blood and immune system.

These cells can also be used for the treatment of 74 diseases, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes and leukaemia.

Mandira's husband too is quite supportive of her association with the cause.

'In India, when a child is born, the parents open a savings bank account to ensure the financial and educational future of the newborn. In my opinion, banking the stem cells of the newborn is equally important as it helps in insuring the medical future of the child. It is a boon and the best gift that we can give our children - the miracle of good health,' said Kaushal, who has produced films like 'My Brother Nikhil', 'Shaadi Ka Laddoo' and 'Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi'.