Many people carry organ donor cards or let it be known in other ways that they wish their organs to be used after their death to help others. What is not so widely known is that it is possible to leave your whole body to medical science.

To do this, you need to approach the anatomy department of your local hospital or university and advise them of your wishes. They will then send you a form to complete detailing your desire to donate your body. This should be kept in a safe place where your next of kin can find it after your demise.

Because the law states that a deceased person cannot own anything, even their own body, you need to ensure that you let your family know what you want to happen.

After death, the anatomy department should be notified as soon as possible so that they can decide whether to accept the body or not. As a general rule, bodies cannot be accepted for anatomical studies that have had a post-mortem, have had any organs other than the corneas removed, or who have died from certain contagious diseases. Sometimes a donated body will be refused because the department has no room to store it or has insufficient staff.

The body may be kept for the purpose of medical research and study for a maximum number of years (usually 3 years) after which it will be disposed of in a dignified manner usually cremation with the funeral expenses being paid by the anatomy department. Although it is not usually possible for the family to attend the funeral, the ashes will be returned to the family if they have requested this.

By donating your body to medical science you may help future doctors and surgeons with their anatomical skills or further knowledge of different diseases and conditions.

Even though it is not possible to hold a funeral service in the normal way if a body is donated in this manner, there is no reason why a memorial service cannot be held where family and friends can pay their last respects.

Learn more about this author, Celia Craske.
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