Henrietta Lacks.
daughter, sister, cousin, wife, mother, cancer patient, immortal
HeLa
The story of Henrietta, her family, and her cells, is to put it mildly, incredible.
There is so much here to take in. The evolution of medical research ethics, the way people of color have been treated specifically by the medical community and the scientists doing medical research. Poverty. Education. Trust. Love. Faith.
These are all part of the story that Rebecca Skloot is telling. It sounds like it could be a science fiction novel, a woman has cervical cancer, her cells are taken, and they start the biggest, longest chain of scientific research into treatments for cancer and other diseases, polio vaccines, AIDS research, and other types of medical advancements. The cells lead to cloning experiments and test tube babies. Her consent to use her cells after she dies was never asked for or given. Her family is not aware for a long time about this and when they find out they feel abused and are actually abused.
But it isn't fiction, this is a true story, a story told in all its raw honesty. Skloot makes Henrietta's story and family come to life and their pain becomes palpable. The anger, resentments, and heartbreak are shared but it is clear it isn't easy and they have suffered much.
Skloot tells the story with love, respect, and finally for this family, some dignity.
HBO is going to be airing a movie based on this book later this month starring Oprah.
(Finished April 9, 2017)
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