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Donating yourself to science

Organ donation

Many of the medical procedures we now take for granted have been made possible by those who have died before us donating their organs. Transplants that would once have been considered impossible are now commonplace. Organs and tissue may be harvested for transplant to needy recipients whose body chemistry makes them a suitable match, or for research or teaching purposes. Such acts of profound generosity are easily accomplished with a little forethought.

By obtaining and signing a donor card, you can make medical personnel aware of your willingness to donate suitable organs and tissue. Donor cards are available from most hospitals or from the local Department of Motor Vehicles.

You should discuss your intent to allow your organs to be harvested with your family and friends to ensure that they don't override your wishes if faced with the issue at the time of your death. Once your organs have been taken, medical personnel will close incisions and return the body to the next of kin for burial or cremation.

Whole body donation

Medical knowledge continues to be advanced by access to cadavers, made possible by those who have donated their entire bodies.

Medical schools are forbidden by law to buy bodies and are therefore dependent upon donations for teaching students and for research. Whole body donations will only be accepted if no organs have been harvested. Although they're not allowed to purchase a body, medical institutions will often pay for the cost of transport and for the final disposition, which is by cremation in most instances. Cremated remains will be returned to next of kin if requested.

It is best to choose a medical establishment to which you'd like to donate your body and make the necessary arrangements in advance. Inquire as to whether there are any associated costs your estate will incur. You should know that even if all the required documentation and authorization, if the supply of donated whole bodies exceeds the need for them (and storage capacity) at the time of your death, the medical institution may decline your donation, in which case your next of kin would carry on with normal funeral arrangements.

If you're unsure of medical institutions that are in need of corpses where you live, you can contact your nearest hospital, or the phone the National Anatomical Service at 1-800-727-0700.