OHT London: The OHT Reading Room - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

Book

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

About the Event

We are excited to host our next “Reading Room “ event where we will discuss "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot.

“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” introduces us to Henrietta Lacks, a woman whose cells, taken without her knowledge, became one of the most important tools in medicine. The first “immortal” human cells grown in culture, they are still alive today, though she has been dead for more than sixty years. These cells, named HeLa, have been used in research into the polio vaccine, and into the effects of atomic warfare; they were shot into space, used in AIDS research, but she remains virtually unknown, buried in an unmarked grave. In “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,” Rebecca Skloot introduces us to the real live woman, the children who survived her, and the interplay of race, poverty, science and one of the most important medical discoveries of the last 100 years.

The “Reading Room “ events are a space to review and discuss books about topics in health and technology that we all care about. For this event, it would be great if you are able to read "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” before coming to the event - check out your local bookshop or library or ask a friend for a copy! However, do not worry if you are unable to read it before the event! The Reading Room is a space for discussion and dialogue, so if you would like to attend, there are a number of online articles that cover some aspects of the content which can be read in advance. There will also be a short talk giving the introduction to the book at the beginning of the event.

This event is part of the "Reading Room" book club series. As part of the "Reading Room", a new book or chapter will be chosen for all to read, and if you're interested in discussing your thoughts and hearing other people's opinions, you can attend the associated Reading Room event to be part of the conversation.

Agenda

7:00pm - Welcome

7:05pm - Introduction to One HealthTech and community shout-out

7:10pm - Starting the conversation

A short introduction of the book “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” from our OHT London volunteer, Anne Marie Delaney.

7:20pm - Book club style discussion in small groups.

7:40pm - Return to the large group for a larger book club style discussion.

7:50pm - Discuss next recommended reading and close.

Sample prompts for discussion

• What was your initial expectation of this book?
• How did you feel when you read the book?
• What piece in particular did or did not receive a reaction from you?
• Are there actions we can take to help address the topics raised in this book?