She participated in the STS-40 mission in 1991, where she studied the effects of microgravity on human cells. This research was a significant milestone in the field of space biology and had potential implications for future space travel and cancer research.
It's important to note that she wasn't just a passenger. She was a scientist and researcher on the mission, conducting her own experiments.
Although her journey made headlines and contributed to our understanding of spaceflight and cancer, it's crucial to recognize that her fame doesn't stem solely from being the first person with cancer in space. Her dedication to research and her contribution to the scientific community are the foundation of her recognition.