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Henrietta Lacks House "HeLa House" was created to honor Henrietta Lacks and the contribution she has made to every one of us on this planet. Henrietta unknowingly changed the world with her immortal DNA cells.  

After Henrietta’s death in 1951, a scientist discovered that Henrietta’s DNA cells lived outside of her body and they never died. In contrast, all other human cells died after a few hours. Not only did Henrietta’s cells stay alive in the lab, but the cells also replicated every 24 hours. 

The immortal DNA cells were coined “HeLa” which combined the first 2 letters of her first name and the first 2 letters of her last name. This huge medical breakthrough allowed researchers to conduct experiments on human cells outside of the body. HeLa cells have played a crucial role in medical science.

Scientists have continued to use the immortal HeLa cell line all over the world. Research involving polio vaccines, chemotherapy, HIV/Aids, cloning, and IVF have all benefited from the HeLa cell line.

Over 10 million lives have been saved
by HeLa cells

ABOUT US

50 Million

Metric tons of HeLa cells have been distributed around the

world

Trillions

of HeLa cells have

been reproduced

75,000

Medical studies have

been conducted using HeLa cells

Programs & Services

Our Mission

Our Vision

Henrietta Lacks House is committed to honoring Henrietta’s legacy by raising awareness about health disparities, social injustices, and systemic economic issues that plague South and West side communities in Chicago. Henrietta’s contribution to the world is priceless. Henrietta unknowingly gave the world her immortal DNA cell line, known as the HeLa cell line. It is estimated that trillions of HeLa cells have been reproduced and over 75,000 medical studies have been conducted. Over 10 million lives have been saved using HeLa cells.

Henrietta Lacks House seeks to create an ecosystem of resources that are easily accessible to members of disadvantaged communities. Healthy food, mental health services, emotional support services, individual and family counseling, improved educational resources, job opportunities, and access to enrichment programs will be available to every resident, with priority given to youth and seniors.

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HEALTH

EDUCATION

RESEARCH

HBO Film The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks