Jennifer Vanderbes, an investigative journalist, uncovered a shocking discovery while researching the history of thalidomide in the U.S. for her book, “Wonder Drug.” She found that there were far more people harmed by the drug in the U.S. than originally thought, with at least 10 times more individuals affected. These survivors were born with serious medical conditions, such as shortened limbs, after their parents took thalidomide during pregnancy in clinical trials in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Vanderbes embarked on a journey across the U.S. to meet with thalidomide survivors and shed light on their untold stories. She also revisited the role of Frances Oldham Kelsey, an FDA medical reviewer who famously refused to approve thalidomide for sale in the U.S. Vanderbes became an advocate for the survivors, now in their 60s, in their quest for justice and support.
The podcast “Lost Women of Science Conversations” featured an episode with Jennifer Vanderbes, where she shared insights into her research and the challenges faced by thalidomide survivors. Vanderbes highlighted the complicity of doctors in distributing the drug without proper oversight and the lack of accountability from pharmaceutical companies.
Vanderbes raised important questions about Frances Kelsey’s role in the thalidomide scandal, acknowledging her efforts to prevent harm but also questioning if more could have been done. She emphasized the need for justice and support for thalidomide survivors in the U.S., who have been overlooked and neglected for decades.
Through her work, Vanderbes aimed to bring attention to the hidden victims of thalidomide in America and advocate for their rights and well-being. The story of thalidomide survivors serves as a reminder of the importance of drug safety regulations and the need to protect vulnerable populations from harmful medications.
