Lacks family

The Lacks family is known for their connection to Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cancer cells were taken without her consent in 1951. These cells, called HeLa cells, became crucial for medical research and have contributed significantly to advancements in medicine, such as cancer treatment and vaccines. While HeLa cells have helped save many lives, Henrietta's family faced ethical issues regarding consent and recognition. The story highlights key themes in medical ethics, race, and the impact of healthcare disparities, prompting discussions on the rights of patients and the use of biological materials in research.