This information has been made available as a courtesy, from Rutherford Cremation & Funeral Services; and as such, is information that applies to the Province of Ontario. It is meant to inform people of information they may need in future or of which they are unaware; and to demystify issues concerning death and dying so that there is clearer understanding.
BODY BEQUEATHAL or DONATING YOUR BODY TO SCIENCE
Body bequeathals for this region are carried out through the body bequeathal program of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, in London, Ontario, McMaster Faculty of Health Sciences in Hamilton and the Human Anatomy Body Donation Program at Guelph University.
WHY BEQUEATH MY BODY? / Bequeathal of your body to science is certainly a generous gift for valuable research and for learning. Firstly; students in various health disciplines benefit from getting a unique understanding of the human body’s form and function. Secondly; future patients of students who have learned anatomy from a bequeathed body obtain enhanced knowledge of a living patient; and the health care industry as a whole, benefits, as research reveals new and different ways to approach medical challenges. Thirdly; while there are altruistic reasons to donate, to give back to humanity or increase the quality of healthcare for future generations, some choose to donate their bodies simply to reduce their final expenses.
CLOSURE / If one is concerned about a ceremony or closure, institutions that accept body donations often have non-denominational services for family members and friends – a time for students to share their feelings of gratitude with families and for families to see and share in the results of their loved one's decision. In addition, should the family wish it, a memorial service may be held in future with the cremated remains present, as the request to have the remains of the body returned is an option. This may happen if requested, either 18 months to 3 years after the body has been donated.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTERWARD? / Once the use of the body is complete, the body is cremated and the remains are returned to the family or interred, depending upon request.
WHO CAN DONATE / Body bequeathal is an option for anyone at any age. The carrying out of your decision to do so will rest with your next of kin or the executor of your will. As such, your decision should be shared with your family and/or executor. While most bodies are accepted, there is no guarantee. Typically, those declined are individuals who:
COSTS / The most obvious reason why costs are lower to the family or friends of an individual who has bequeathed their body is that the cost of cremation and the subsequent interment of the remains is undertaken by the University. However, relatives who desire to claim the cremated remains after the donation period has ended, for private interment, may do so; but interment costs are then borne by the estate of the deceased. Keep in mind that bequeathal of a body to science does not necessarily negate having a memorial service for the individual. Regardless of a wish for body donation, alternative funeral plans should be in place in case the body donation is not accepted.
UNTIL SOON. LIVE WELL.
