Busting Body Donation Myths

Most people assume that their only two options for their bodies post-death are cremations and funeral homes in Reserve, LA. Many other common body disposition methods, like body donation, are discounted because of misinformation that has permeated social media and the Internet.  

Even though body donation is so important, many people choose to skip it because they believe common body disposition myths. To clear things up, here are common donation myths and their truths. 

•  Donors Don’t Get Saved – A common way of thinking is that doctors and nurses don’t work as hard to save donors, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. When you’re in a hospital or doctor’s office, the medical professionals are only focused on helping you, not some amorphous donor. Organ and tissue donation is only considered when there is no other option to save or revive the potential donor in question.

• My Remains Won’t Be Treated with Respect – Most people fear that their bodies will be disposed of in any way the organization feels after the donation is complete. This is not true. The majority of bodies donated are cremated after any procedures are completed. In fact, some medical facilities that get a lot of body donations often have a memorial service at the end of their training in recognition and respect for their donors. In many cases, the cremated remains can also be returned to the family, if they so choose.  

• Body Donation Is Expensive – There is absolutely not cost to the donor or donor family involved in body donation. In fact, the organization that receives the body pays all related donation costs. For example, if it’s a transplant, the receiving patient’s insurance usually covers the cost. Or, if the body is being donated to a medical training facility, the facility furnishes all necessary costs. 
• I Can’t Donate Because I’m Sick– Don’t assume that a body won’t qualify as a donor because of disease or other sickness. Some diseases only affect one part of the body, making the rest totally viable. For example, someone that died of heart disease may still be able to donate his or her eyes. Let the professionals decide if your body is a prospect for donation.  

If it’s right for you, body donation is an incredibly important part of modern medicine. Whether the body is used for research, transplants, or even both, it is going towards saving lives. Giving all or part of your body to help save others is noble and always appreciated. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), a full organ donor will either save or better the lives of 6 to 8 people, while a full tissue donor can better the lives of 50 or more people. 

Body donation might not be for everyone, but it can be a great choice for those interested in helping others after they’re gone. Millet Guidry Funeral Home is here to help if you have more questions on body donation, or about Reserve, LA funeral homes. Stop by and visit us today or give us a call to learn more.