At the risk of getting shouted down, I understand why being a 'patient advocate' may be a negative. As a patient community we stand to gain a great deal with the success of Dr Mikovits' advocacy... as does she. It is a 2-way street. Patient support, good will and financial, will benefit WPI. The hint of financial gain taints everything WPI are involved in. Now, while I am in thrall to WPI's efforts thus far, I can see why the scientific community, at least those with no visible financial gain, would want to keep them at arm's length. Mind you, it reeks of double standands, particularly when you follow the money trail in the so called pure science arena.
So any public attempt to compel WPI's involvement in the XMRV workshop will only reinforce the original perceptions of the pure scientists that WPI is biased. Science is not about public pressure... Yes, I know, I can almost taste the hypocrisy!