HeLa cells are used extensively in medical research, they have contributed immensely to the advancement of knowledge in many areas of medicine. At the time when they were first harvested and found to have the property of immortality the subject of medical ethics was not as evolved as it is today. It was common practice to use harvested matter from patients without their consent, as there existed at the time an altruistic spirit in the field - the aim of research was to the benefit of mankind. Since around the mid 80s (speaking from my own experience) this has changed. Now, most research institutions, due to funding cut backs, are in the business of patenting for the purpose of generating profits. This has moved the yardsticks as far as compensation goes. My position is that if any individual or institution has benefited financially from any application derived from the HeLa line of cells, then some compensation should be awarded to the family.