Why 'Death' Is the Fitting Title for This Section in 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks'

Skloot chose to use 'Death' as the title for this section because it highlights the profound impact of Henrietta's death on her family and the scientific community. This section delves into the use of HeLa cells in research, emphasizing the lack of knowledge or consent from Henrietta's family, leading to ethical concerns and questions about ownership of biological materials. The section also explores the personal toll Henrietta's death took on her family, particularly her husband and children, highlighting their struggles with her loss, both emotionally and financially. Skloot reveals how they were largely excluded from the scientific advances made using Henrietta's cells. Additionally, the section emphasizes the disparities in how Henrietta's death was treated compared to other patients, particularly Black patients, during that time. The medical community's disregard for informed consent and exploitation of vulnerable populations becomes a central theme throughout the book. By titling this section 'Death,' Skloot emphasizes the lasting impact of Henrietta's death on both her family and the field of medical research. It serves as a reminder of the ethical implications of utilizing human tissues in research, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and equitable distribution of scientific advancements.