The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

Henrietta Lacks, a poor Southern tobacco farmer, unknowingly contributed to groundbreaking medical advancements through her cancer cells, known as HeLa. These cells became the first immortal human tissue grown in culture, playing a crucial role in the development of the polio vaccine and research into cancer, viruses, and genetic mapping. Despite their immense impact and commercial value, Henrietta's story remains largely untold, and she lies in an unmarked grave, highlighting the ethical issues surrounding medical research and consent.