When someone you love dies, it can be hard to make decisions. Funeral, organ donation, cremation with a memorial service?  It’s a very personal choice and can be confusing. In today’s Heartbeat we’re discussing the option of whole body donation.

Willing a body to a medical school or body donation service can be a way to assist with research into certain diseases or conditions.  Donation can also be a way to enhance the training of medical students and surgeons. Those plans have to be made in advance of the death so it’s good to have body donation discussions.

Organizations like Science Care and Med Cure, or your local medical schools can provide you with options. Be sure to have a backup plan if the body doesn’t meet the criteria for donation at the time of death.

To get more information about advance care planning, visit The Heart of Hospice website. You’ll find resources on caregiving, end of life care, and self care for personal and professionals caregivers, along with encouragement for your hospice journey. Remember to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen - Apple podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Google Play, or Radio.com.