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Donor programme faq

Frequently asked Questions

Does Anatomy, NUIG accept all bequests?

Whilst we make every possible effort to accept bequests, there are certain circumstances under which we cannot accept bequests. 

These are:

If the deceased has undergone a post-mortem examination;
If the deceased has been the victim of an accident and suffered extensive injuries;
If the deceased has undergone recent major surgery (i.e. did not recover post-operatively);
If the deceased was suffering from a notifiable or other major infectious disease.

This is something I want to do, but my family are against it. What will happen?

Before making the decision, we advise potential donors to inform their family and explain why this is their wish.  It must be made clear that, whilst we endeavour to honour all bequests, that relatives (or executors) of the deceased may choose to ignore a bequest and have the remains of the deceased buried or cremated.

Can I withdraw from the donor programme?

Yes, you can withdraw from the donor programme at any stage, just contact us.

What happens to my body after I die?

Perhaps the first consideration is the coffin; this may be provided by the family at their own expense – if this is the case, then the deceased is brought to the Department of Anatomy in this coffin and is subsequently buried (or cremated) in it.  If it happens to be the case that a coffin is not provided (for whatever reason), then the University will provide a coffin for transportation and burial.

Who do my representatives contact if I happen to die during a University holiday?

If this happens, your representatives should contact the University’s undertaking firm.  At present this is:

J.J. Conneely & Sons, Market Street, Galway
Telephone: 091-562866

This undertaking firm has extensive experience of the procedure, and will help guide your representatives through it.

It is my family’s tradition to hold a wake, will this still be possible?

It is important to note that, for anatomical reasons, all embalming is carried out in the Anatomy, NUIG, and not by the family undertaker.  If it is the case that a family wishes to hold a wake, this may be able to proceed, but perhaps for a shorter period than would traditionally be the case. It must be stated, however, that we must receive the body within 36 hours of death.

Can my family erect a headstone if I am buried in the University plot?

The matter of headstones and memorial plaques is under discussion at present. The upgrade of the University plot is planned which contains the erection of one large engraved headstone/plague which will have all the donor names that are buried there. We ask that families do not erect individual headstones.

The fact that the time of my death and burial will be so long apart may be hard for my family.  What help can you offer?

We understand that this is a major and difficult decision to make.  At present the University is not in a position to offer counselling support to family members.

However, if at any time a family member wishes to talk to a member of the Anatomy staff, they may contact us.

Each year, as a mark of respect and thanks for those who have donated their bodies, the staff of Anatomy with help from the University Chaplains, conducts a non-denominational service in the University Oratory.  Members of the families of donors are invited to attend, along with the students and staff of Anatomy to celebrate the lives of those who have bequeathed their bodies.  Following the service, family members are invited to a small reception and to talk with Anatomy staff and students.  We believe that this event is an important one in the calendar of the University and hope it benefits those family members who feel they can attend.

Will there be a funeral service? 

If a funeral service is to be held, all expenses incurred with this must be met by the family (or Estate).  Expenses involved with transporting the remains to the University from the service are met by the University.  If no funeral service is to be held, remains are then transferred directly from the place of death to Anatomy, NUIG.

When will my final burial take place?

Bodies remain with us for a period of one to three years in total.  After this period of time, remains will be released to the family for burial within the family plot or within the University plot in Bohermore Cemetery, Galway City.  If it is wished, the deceased may be buried within the University plot – and expenses will be met by the University.  Relatives of the deceased will be informed in writing of the time and date of the release of the body with a minimum of three months notice.

What is the procedure if I wish to be cremated?

If you wish your remains to be cremated the University does not cover the cost of cremation or any arrangements pertaining to it.  Further information on cremation can be found on the following website.  Cremation in Ireland

    

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