04/02/2026
Have you ever noticed this statue? Meet Henrietta Lacks, a Roanoke native whose legacy reshaped modern medicine. 🧫
At just 31, Henrietta was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 1951. While receiving treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital, her cells were taken without her knowledge. Those cells - later known as “HeLa cells” - became the first immortal human cell line, able to replicate indefinitely. They’ve since played a critical role in countless medical breakthroughs, transforming the field of biomedicine.
Her story is also a powerful reminder of the injustices faced by marginalized communities and the ethical complexities of medical research. Today, her family continues to advocate for recognition, transparency, and a voice in how her cells are used.
Unveiled in 2023, her statue now stands in Henrietta Lacks Plaza, replacing a former Confederate monument that was removed in 2020. Set downtown between the Municipal and Commonwealth buildings, the plaza is framed by towering elms, crape myrtles, and blooming tulips. It’s especially beautiful to visit this time of year. 🌷