Henrietta Lacks

When I first began to read this book, I did not think that it would be anything like it is.  I originally imagined that this book would be more like a professional medical journal than the story of Henrietta's life like it is.  This book has truly captivated my attention, especially by giving all of the background knowledge on the "characters" lives.  Because I feel like I have an insight on who these people were, I feel like it helps with the ethical issues revolving around the book.  In addition, I think it is crucial to understand the time period that all of these events were taking place as well as the medical technology that was available at the time.  At this point in the book however I feel as if the family of Henrietta Lacks should at least receive free medical care due to the massive amounts of money the Hela cells have produced. 

Meghan Tonjes

All I have to say, wow.  Meghan Tonjes was a fantastic guest speaker in our class on Tuesday for numerous reasons.  Not only does she not fit the "ideal" body type making her deviant in nature already, but she is also an activist for overweight women that need to know that they are simply not alone.  In addition, add the fact that she is an amazingly talented musical artist, she has truly become a deviant of society in numerous ways.  Project lifesize however is what I think Meghan should be most known for.  Not only does this woman have a great personality, she also has a huge heart with her will to be a support for other overweight women.  Meghan Tonjes was an amazing inspiration and a great example of an "out of the box" activist event which would truly reach a tremendous amount of people.  All in all, I truly enjoyed her presentation and especially her beautiful music. 

Meghan's Visit

Thank you to those of you who posted kind words about Meghan Tonjes' visit to class. I will be sure to pass them along to her!

"HeLa": Disguising the "Deviancy"

The changing of Henrietta's name to "Helena Lane" may symbolize not only the doctor's attempts to hide the truth behind the injustice retrieval of the cells but ultimately, the identity of the source of the cells. Perhaps if the public had been made aware of the "HeLa" cells belonged to a black woman, they would have been reluctant to use the treatments born out of her cells. Why use cells from a "deviant" race? Even the media often referred to the cells as "abnormal." Could the use of the "abnormal" cells from a black woman help justify the retrieval of the cells? Could the "abnormal" cells obtained from a black woman justify the advancement of the cells finally developing into immortal cells?

Angela B.

Justified Benefits?

One point which was raised in class was the treatment of Henrietta as justice due to the benefits her cells have provided science. However, if we were to consider a majority of scientific procedures or medical interventions as justice due to the possible benefits many of the procedures such as sex reassignment surgery and the medical separation of conjoined twins would possibly be considered beneficial. However, it is the treatment of individuals which should be of high importance. For it is essential that the individual seeking help either receives such help or can make an inform decision. Rather than benefiting others, often only those who can afford the care or the medical professionals involved in the treatment.

Angela B.

Class itself

I think that the class discussions are running quit smoothly. I notice and I appreciate everyone being respectful and considered to others in the class. This class is very unique and very informative and I think it's great they we can all come together from different backgrounds to discuss diverse and tough topics/issues. I just wanted to state that comment.

Last Class

During last class, the question 'should Hernietta's family get something for the cells that was stolen from Hernietta?' arised. I personally think they should. These scientists got rich off something they should have went to jail over. The less they could do is give them some type of cash award, considering they still struggle economically to survive.