Donation Dilemma

The subject of organ donation is one that is highly argued and discussed locally and world wide in this day and age. The question of whether organs should be donated or available for purchase is one that lurks the minds of thousands awaiting a transplant that could save their life. I personally do not believe that one should be able to sell their organs. If one wishes to donate their organs I think that is incredibly generous and helps saves lives, but I do not think one can put a price on this act. Selling organs I think would open up the door to a market that would disadvantage those who are sick but cannot afford to be financially competitive to receive a transplant. I think the system should work where organs go to those most in need depending on age and circumstance, but disregarding the financial situation of the individual.

Martin Wilikinson’s opinions in his article do not change my view on the idea of selling organs. Sure people may be more willing to sell than donate, but the scenario could also go the other way as he pointed out. I do not believe that you can put a price on a human life, or any part of it for that matter. I think giving a price to organs on the market would be opening up a door to a long and unwanted struggle in the medical world. People would be willing to donate only because they are being compensated but where is this compensation money coming from. If it comes from the government it will raise taxes. If it comes from recipients it will make receiving organs a competitive and unfair process. I strongly believe that organs should be donated voluntary and given no cash value in the end.

Henrietta's Struggle Against Science

Henrietta Lacks' story is one of great importance and deserves the attention of society. She had medical samples taken without her consent, and these samples lead to breakthroughs in the medical field beyond many people's imaginations. Her contribution, although greatly appreciated, was not willingly given. She contributed what could be valued at hundreds of millions of dollars worth of medication and cures, yet her family continues to live in poverty without access to good medical care themselves. Her story is one the public needs to be made aware of and learn about in today’s society. People have certain natural and written rights, and the right to ones own body certainly falls into those categories. Rebecca Skloot tells the story of Henrietta Lacks in her book, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, and tries to educate people of the process Henrietta went through and what her family still struggles with to this day.

            I am sure that many people do not understand thoroughly the true depth and significance of Henrietta’s story. I am sure some people think it was ok for the samples to be taken, and others believe that what was done was unethical. The process of describing this difficult topic was undoubtedly challenging for Skloot. She had to encompass both sides of the story, while also trying to stick to the facts. In writing she most likely came across difficult wordings in trying to describe situations in a way that most, if not all, readers would be able to comprehend. I think that all educated people should be able to understand what she is describing in her book, and that even those not quite as literate would be able to follow along. I look forward to reading her book myself, and do not anticipate too much difficulty in comprehending the content.