Summary

Chapter 28: After London… 1996-1999

British producer Adam Curtis became interested in Henrietta’s story and began working on a documentary about her in 1996. Deborah was hopeful that the family and the world would learn the true story about her mother. Curtis conducted filmed interviews of Henrietta’s children and other relatives. Also filmed was the family’s journey to Morehouse in Atlanta for a conference organized by Pattillo to honor Henrietta’s contribution to advancements in science and medicine. The Atlanta mayor decreed a “Henrietta Lacks Day.” Deborah gave a brief speech at the gathering – sending her and her siblings love to their mother.

Courtney Speed and others in Turner Station were on a committee with the goal of focusing attention of black people from Turner Station. When they learned about Henrietta and HeLa, they put all their efforts to...