Susan G. Komen Applauds Women’s History Month Resolution Recognizing Contributions of Henrietta Lacks

Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD) Introduces Resolution to Honor
Lacks’ Impact on Medical Science

WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Susan G. Komen today applauded a resolution introduced by Rep. Elijah E.
Cummings (D-MD) recognizing the impact of Henrietta Lacks, a Virginia
woman who died in Baltimore, MD, of cervical cancer in 1951.

Cancer cells unknowingly taken from Mrs. Lacks during her treatment –
now known as HeLa cells – have been used in medical science for more
than six decades, contributing to the development of the polio vaccine,
treatments for cancer, AIDS, leukemia, Parkinson’s disease and more.

“It’s an honor to recognize the lifesaving contributions of Henrietta
Lacks during Women’s History Month,” said Susan G. Komen President and
CEO Dr. Judith Salerno. “While Henrietta was taken by cancer too young,
her cells have saved millions, and her life shows us the power of just
one woman, mother, daughter and friend, on the world. We appreciate
Congressman Cummings’ leadership in recognizing the impact of a truly
phenomenal woman.”

“The Lacks family is honored and grateful to pay tribute to our beloved
Henrietta Lacks for Women’s History month. She is among the many women
who have shaped both history and the future,” said Victoria Baptiste,
the great-granddaughter of Henrietta Lacks. “She was a medical whisper,
unknowingly contributing to science that has made the impossible
possible. We are delighted that now her story is being shouted to the
world.”

Komen will honor Mrs. Lacks’ life and legacy with a reception tonight
featuring rare memorabilia and remarks from: Dr. Salerno, Rep. Elijah E.
Cummings (D-MD), Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson
(D-TX), Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Dr. Kathy Hudson, Deputy
Director for Science, Outreach and Policy, National Institutes of
Health, Victoria Baptiste, and other Lacks family members.

About Susan G. Komen®

Susan G. Komen is world’s largest breast cancer organization, funding
more breast cancer research than any other nonprofit while providing
real-time help to those facing the disease. Since its founding in 1982,
Komen has funded more than $889 million in research and provided $1.95
billion in funding to screening, education, treatment and psychosocial
support programs. Komen has worked in more than 60 countries worldwide.
Komen was founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G.
Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life. Visit komen.org
or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at ww5.komen.org/social

Contacts

Susan G. Komen®
Joni Avery, 972-855-4382
javery@komen.org