EXHIBIT 99.2

                 Genzyme to Offer Convertible Subordinated Notes

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 2 -- Genzyme Corp. today announced its intention to
conduct a private placement offering of convertible subordinated notes to
qualified institutional investors. The notes would be convertible into Genzyme
General common stock (Nasdaq: GENZ). Genzyme expects that the offering will
generate net proceeds of approximately $500 million to be used by Genzyme
General for working capital and general corporate purposes.

The securities have not been registered under the United States Securities Act
of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration
or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. This press release
does not constitute an offer to sell the notes, nor is Genzyme soliciting offers
to buy them.

Genzyme Corp. is a biotechnology and health care products company that develops
innovative products and services for major unmet medical needs.

Genzyme's releases are available at www.genzyme.com. They are also available
from Genzyme's fax-on-demand service at 1-800-436-1443 within the United States
or 1-201-521-1080 outside the United States.

CONTACT: media, Bo Piela, 617-252-7785, or investors, Sally Curley,
617-591-7140, both of Genzyme Corp.