Henrietta Lacks: A Life, Not a Lab Sample is a presentation that centers Henrietta Lacks as a person—a mother, a daughter, a wife, and a woman—rather than solely as the source of one of the most important scientific breakthroughs of the 20th century. While acknowledging the extraordinary medical advances made possible by HeLa cells, this program shifts the focus to Henrietta’s life, her family, and the profound ethical questions surrounding consent, race, and medical exploitation. Through historical context and storytelling, this presentation aims to give Henrietta Lacks a voice beyond the laboratory, honoring her humanity and examining the lasting impact of the science that emerged from her pain.

Image Credit: ICDA aims to accelerate understanding of common diseases