Henrietta Lacks's life was marked by societal challenges, particularly regarding her experiences as an African American woman in the mid-20th century. Her struggle with healthcare inequities and the lack of informed consent highlighted systemic issues in medical ethics. The use of her cells, known as HeLa cells, without her knowledge contributed to significant advancements in science but also sparked discussions on racism and exploitation in medical research. Lacks's story ignited a broader conversation about ethics in medicine, underscoring the importance of equity and the need for more inclusive practices in healthcare.