Tissue Bank - San Diego, CA Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that there are many questions regarding the donation process. Here are some important questions and answers that may help you with your decision. We understand that you and your family may have many more questions regarding whole-body donation, and we are here to answer those questions.
Registration is easy. It simply involves completing our online donor consent forms and our clinical history forms. We will also discuss how the tissue donation process works and how this will take place to ensure a very smooth and timely donation. It is very important to inform family members of the decision to be a donor.
Yes, if the donor cannot sign on their own behalf, the person who is listed on the Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) Health Care document may legally sign their loved one up to become a tissue donor. A DPOA Health Care document lets you name someone else to make decisions about your health care in case you are unable to make those decisions yourself. In accordance with your state’s Uniform Anatomical Gift Act, and any applicable federal and state laws regarding cremation authorizations, your legal next of kin may also consent to anatomical donation with two witnesses. The legal next of kin can range from the donor’s closest relatives (as defined by state law), to a designated Health Care Power of Attorney.
Almost everyone is eligible for whole-body donation. There are no maximum age restrictions, however GHR does not accept donors under the age of 18. Researchers and physicians in training need tissue from health donors, in addition to donors with illnesses and diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, etc. Even if you are ill, please contact us if you are interested, and our friendly staff can discuss possibilities.
Exclusions from becoming a donor are: Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV 1 & HIV 2), Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Hepatitis B or C, Syphilis, Active Tuberculosis (TB), Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), other bacterial infections, morbid obesity at time of passing and Covid-19 positive test within 2 weeks of passing.
No. Making a whole-body donation with Giving Hope Research is completely free.
No. Giving Hope Research does NOT provide ANY tissue for transplantation. We only provide tissue for research and medical education to help facilitate medical innovation and breakthroughs.
Yes. Giving Hope Research maintains the highest professionalism, follows all HIPAA regulations, and protects the privacy of donor information. GHR may only identify the donor when required by law.
Unfortunately, we are not able to honor directed donation to areas of research, as we cannot guarantee suitability or researcher needs for specific projects at the time of passing.
Viewing is not possible, with whole-body donation. Cremains will be returned to the family or scattered at sea. Memorials, life celebrations, and other types of services honoring the donor, are encouraged as a way of finding closure and allowing others to pay their respects. These costs are not covered by GHR.