Whole body donation is a powerful way to contribute to the advancement of medical research, training, and education. When you make a donation, you help medical professionals improve treatments, develop new procedures, and enhance surgical training to produce better patient outcomes.
You can make a lasting impact and get free cremation services with a donation to science through United Tissue Network (UTN), a nonprofit organization that coordinates body donations in Arizona and other states.
Whole Body Donation in Arizona
United Tissue Network accepts donors aged 18 and older, with no upper age limit. Most individuals qualify, but certain infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS or hepatitis may prevent eligibility.
If possible, register ahead of time on UTN’s website. It streamlines the donation process and lets your family members know about your wishes. The enrollment process with UTN is straightforward and can be completed online.
- Fill out a brief donor profile online and provide basic medical information. All information is kept confidential, and UTN does not share personal information.
- Connect with a Donor Coordinator at United Tissue Network to complete the process, including witnessed consent forms.
- Get a digital pledge card once you are accepted into the program.
Once you are accepted, you should discuss your decision with family members so they understand your intentions and can act quickly when the time comes. There’s a short window after death when the body must be handled properly to transport it to medical research and education facilities.
You can pledge yourself to become a body donor or help a loved one pre-register. It is also possible to register someone for a body donation at the time of death. If someone has passed or is in the process of dying, you should contact UTN immediately.
What Happens After a Donor Passes Away
Once notified, UTN will handle the arrangements with you, a hospital, hospice center, or other medical facility to place the body with a reputable medical research or educational facility that has a current need. Throughout the process, donated bodies and families are treated with dignity and respect.
Past donations have made a significant impact in training and educating doctors and surgeons. “Being able to learn and practice on human tissue made me a better doctor,” said John M. “I’m so grateful to the donors who helped me become one of the best surgeons in my field.”
Moreover, medical researchers have made big strides in understanding disease progression and developing new treatments and therapies. Medical breakthroughs in heart disease, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and various types of cancer have all come about because of donated bodies.
Cremation Services with Donation to Science
One of the key benefits of donating through UTN is that cremation services when donating to science are provided at no cost to the donor’s family. Once research is complete, UTN arranges for cremation at a licensed facility. The timeline for cremation varies depending on how long the body is utilized for research. Some studies may conclude within a few weeks, while others can take years.
Families may request to have the cremated remains returned to them for memorial purposes, or UTN can arrange for ethical disposition. All of this is done at no cost to the family. UTN pays for all of the costs, helping relieve some of the financial burden when a loved one passes.
Why Choose United Tissue Network?
UTN stands out as a leader in whole-body donation due to its ethical standards and dedication to donor dignity. United Tissue Network has assisted nearly 12,000 families with body donations for medical science, ensuring that each contribution makes a meaningful impact. As an accredited member of the American Association of Tissue Banks, UTN adheres to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.
UTN is the only nonprofit organization coordinating body donations in Phoenix, providing a trusted local resource for those interested in donating. Families can rest assured knowing their loved one’s donation supports legitimate and impactful medical advancements.
Many families also take comfort during their grieving in knowing that the passing of a loved one serves a noble purpose and helps future generations.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Your Family
Choosing body donation is a profound way to leave a lasting legacy and contribute to medical advancements while alleviating the financial burden on loved ones. By registering with UTN, you can ensure your decision is honored while getting no-cost cremation services when donating to science.
If you are considering whole-body donation, take the next step by pre-registering. You can also call (877) 738-6111 to talk to one of our Donor Coordinators to learn more. Our team members are available 24/7 to answer your calls and questions.
