How to Donate a Body to Science

Some people prefer that their body be buried after they pass; others would rather be cremated. A select few want to do something more with their remains after they die: donate their body to science. Donating your body to science after you pass away can help researchers find new cures for diseases, teach medical students how to become great doctors and may even help scientists learn more about your illness and find new ways to combat it.

Instructions

1. Choose a particular cause. There are many different types of research that your body can be used for after you die. If you want to donate your body to a specific cause, especially if you suffered from something that you want to help others learn more about, then thoroughly think this through before you start making plans. That way, you can get in contact with the right organization to ensure your body goes somewhere that can use it for what you intend.

2. Contact a medical school to ask about their procedures for body donations. You may find that they don't accept private donations; if that's the case, then continue your search until you find a school that does. When you do find a school who would be happy to accept your body, find out how you can set up the donation after you pass. Get their contact information to include in your will.

3. Contact a research lab that researches an illness that you have. Choosing one close to home will make it easier to transport your body after death, but don't let that deter you if you have your heart set on something specific. When you've decided where you want to go, give them a call to discuss their procedures for accepting bodies.

4. Include your wish to be donated to science in your will, along with the specific organization or school you have made plans with. Include the organization's contact information so the executor of your will can get in touch with them easily and arrange transportation.

5. Make it clear to your friends and family that this is what you want to happen. If they protest, calmly explain the rationale behind your decision - it may help them understand and accept your choice. If they still disagree, you may want to appoint someone, like your spouse or a sibling, to battle the opposed family member in court if they try to block your body from being donated. The more people who are aware of your wishes, the better your chances of having them fulfilled after death.

6. Develop a back-up plan. The cause of your death may make your body unsuitable for the purpose you intended. Along with your wishes to be donated to science, include what should happen if no organization can accept your body. Include a complete plan of your wishes for your funeral.

References

• Biogift: The Procedure For Donating Your Body To Science