My body to science or keep it for my self

Hello everybody

i have just been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, I’m 43 and just to give you an idea of my fitness level: I still a six pack (whoup whoup). Any who.... I am scared to leave my family but not afraid to leave. I am not depressed (although have been taking some 50mg “happy pills” and gone through therapy for the last year and so. I have done so much progress)

i wanted to post this in order to show any love I may to all those going though this shorter period of our lives and also my love to all those that surround us with thier love and worries. 

I will die faster than I previously thought, And I have accepted that. 

My question comes to sciencites out there. And to you all. Would it help if I offered my body and our disease to science in order to progress and have more answers for our future generations? And if so with all the research that the “loved” ones have  made so far, or have done. Is there some that would deserve this donation more than others?

  • Hi Meandlovedones,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I'm very sorry to read about your recent diagnosis. It's good to hear the steps you're taking and your approach, and thank you for posting here with the kind words.

    In terms of your question, we have some information about donating your body for research on our website here and a bit here as well which also includes a link to the NHS organ donation website.

    I hope this helps a little.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

  • What a great question.

    When my son was a medical student his class trained in physiology using the donated body of a deceased cancer patient who was a retired doctor. At the end of the training module the class was invited to the family funeral. 

    I always thought that was a touching way to remind medical students of the human connection and a wonderful final act of giving from someone who had spent his life caring for others.

    The HTA website is worth a visit it has a “does what it says on the tin” address! www.hta.gov.uk/donating-your-body

     

    Best wishes

    Dave

     

    Best wishes

    Dave