Henrietta Lacks - A life that saved millions

Introduction: the Untold Hero of Science

Have you ever heard about Henrietta Lacks? Probably not. But you’ve also most certainly benefitted from her contributions to science. Her cells - known as the HeLa cells - are arguably the most important in history. Did you know that they were the first human cells to be sent into space? Apart from that, they’ve been vital in developing countless medical breakthroughs, from cancer treatment to Polio and COVID-19 vaccines. Her story may not be well known, but without her, millions of lives might never have been saved. So, who was Henrietta Lacks? Here is her untold story.

Who was Henrietta Lacks?

In 1951, an African-American woman named Henrietta Lacks visited Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, where she got diagnosed with cervical cancer. During her biopsy, her doctor took some of her tumorous cells for further inspection. Scientists soon discovered something extraordinary: unlike other human cells, which died quickly when removed from the body, her cells kept on dividing and growing! These cells, named HeLa cells, became the first, and for many years, the only IMMORTAL human cell line. They are considered to be the most important and widely used cell lines in medical research.

From a Hospital Room to Outer Space

Sadly, Henrietta soon passed away due to her cancer. However, her cells have been used in countless scientific breakthroughs. They helped develop the Polio vaccine, advanced cancer research, supported AIDS treatment, and also contributed to the study of COVID-19. They’ve traveled to space to test the effects of gravity and radiation, and helped scientists understand how human cells behave. In many ways, the modern medical world is basically built upon what Henrietta’s cells have made possible. 

The Controversy: Science, Secrets, and a Family Left in the Dark

However here comes the controversy: her doctor offered her cells freely and widely for scientific research WITHOUT Henrietta’s or her family's consent. For decades, her family had no idea that her cells were being used all around the world. They gave no permission, nor did they receive any compensation, they weren’t even informed about it. 

Meanwhile, companies largely profited from HeLa cells. Finally, it wasn’t until the 1970s when her name was written in an article that her family found out. They felt outraged and disrespected because even though HeLa cells helped millions of people, her own family was still living in poverty. Isn’t that ironic?

Immortal Cells, Immortal Impact

Today, the world is finally giving Henrietta Lacks the recognition she deserves for her enormous contribution to science. Her story is no longer hidden in the shadows of history. Dozens of books and thousands of articles (including this one!) have been published to shed light on her story.

Henrietta Lacks’ cells may be immortal, but so is her impact on our world.  On top of the scientific advancements in unimaginable ways, her story also exposes the deep injustices faced by those patients who were never given a choice. Therefore we should remember Henrietta Lacks, not only for her scientific legacy, but also as a reminder that we should always honor and respect all individuals involved, making sure that history will never repeat itself. 

By Miaoyun and Angelina

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