Death is an inevitable part of life.  When faced with options on what to do with your body after you have lived out your last breath, please consider whole body donation, as there several benefits that you may not be aware of:

1. The donor is able to give back to future generations leaving a lasting legacy of hope through medical science

2. The donor family is able to feel comfort in honoring the wishes of the decedent

3. With many programs, the donation is free and includes cremation so there is the added benefit of removing the burden from the survivors of costly funeral arrangements

4. Each donor can help to support medical research, education and training that will improve patient care immediately and in the future.

Practicing physicians and surgeons train on the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques and the most advanced implant technologies.  Aspiring physicians in universities work with the full cadaver for several months to learn the intricacies of the human body.  Research labs utilize human tissue to develop better treatment options for patients, improving quality of life and longevity. 

The need for human tissue for medical research and science is great.  If you are considering cremation, consider the added benefits that come with whole body donation plus cremation.  Although body donation is not for everyone, many are drawn to the ability to leave one last gift for humankind…a very tangible and selfless gift. 

  • Some examples of real medical advancements through the gift of whole body donation are:
  • Improved infectious disease testing (to reduce transmission)
  • Better treatment options for Alzheimer’s patients (to improve quality of life for longer)
  • Surgical training for complex procedures (helping to save the life a military officer in need of a complex amputation)
  • Improvements in facial reconstruction techniques (helping patients disfigured by trauma or cancer to have a better quality of life)
  • Development of improved drug delivery systems (transdermal delivery systems help to improve the outcomes for patients by ensuring consistency in delivery)
  • Technological advances in orthopedic implants (development of the 30 year knee replacement, helping patients to be active)
  • And many others!

If you or a loved one is interested in learning more contact a local or nationwide whole body donor program for more information or to join the registry.

This article was written by Science Care.  View Science Care’s listing on SeniorDirectory.com