Deborah Lacks

Deborah Lacks was the daughter of Henrietta Lacks, whose cancer cells were taken without her permission in the 1950s and became the first immortal human cell line, known as HeLa cells. Deborah played a key role in raising awareness about her mother's contribution to medical research and the ethical issues involved. Her efforts helped bring attention to the importance of consent and patients' rights in scientific studies, as well as honoring Henrietta's legacy. Deborah's advocacy contributed to broader discussions on ethics and acknowledgment in medical research involving human tissues.