Carter Roy

More importantly, she's willing to testify.

On the witness stand, Hughes explains something that has yet to be made public.

At almost every other research institution, scientists are required to follow strict safety protocols when handling radioactive materials.

They have to wear protective gear and use forceps to grab the radium.

At USRC, the women not only weren't protected, but they were encouraged to put the radium in their mouths.

Hughes' testimony makes international headlines.

The tide of public opinion turns decisively against USRC.

When the company asks for a months-long postponement, claiming their experts will be traveling abroad,

Newspaper columnists erupt with outrage.

These women are dying.

Every delay could mean another death before the trial concludes.

Facing a public relations disaster, USRC decides to settle out of court.

Each of the five women receives $10,000, equivalent to about $190,000 today.

They also receive a $600 annual pension for life, plus coverage of all medical expenses, is a fraction of what they asked for.

But they're dying.

They need the money now.

Within five years of the settlement, Grace Fryer, Catherine Shobe, and Quinta McDonald all die from radium poisoning.

Edna Hussman dies in 1939.

Albina Larisse, the longest survivor of the group, dies in 1946.

None of them live to see old age.