Netflix film "Joy" highlights Jean Purdy's vital role in IVF development

The Netflix movie "Joy" highlights the contributions of Jean Purdy, a nurse and embryologist, in the development of IVF, which led to the birth of the first test tube baby, Louise Brown, in 1978. Purdy passed away at age 39 from cancer in 1985. Despite her significant role, Purdy's name was initially omitted from a commemorative plaque honoring her colleagues. The film includes a letter from scientist Robert Edwards advocating for her recognition, emphasizing her equal contribution to the IVF project. Purdy's legacy has been restored, with her name now included on a plaque alongside Edwards and surgeon Patrick Steptoe, unveiled in 2015. Since the advent of IVF, over 300,000 children have been born in the UK, with more than 20,000 at the clinic they established.