The Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois receives, prepares, preserves and distributes human whole body donations for the purpose of medical education and research to institutions throughout Illinois, including Rush University Medical Center.
Individuals interested in donating their own body or the body of a loved one after death to the medical sciences can follow these steps:
- Either download the AGA donation form or contact the AGA at (312) 733-5283 for a copy of the form
- Complete the form
- Have two non-family member witnesses sign the form or have it notarized
- Make a copy for your records
- Mail the original to the AGA at the address on the form
- Review the educational material
- Share the decision to donate with family, loved ones, next of kin and/or estate executor
- Carry the donor card
More information can be found at the AGA website.
Annual Rush University Memorial Service
Each year, Rush University students organize and hold a memorial service to publicly recognize and pay tribute to the donors who played a significant role in furthering their education. Typically, the service is opened by the head of the Department of Religion and Health and includes presentations by invited students, faculty, and guests, including music, poetry, readings, and reflections. During the reading of names, students memorialize the donors by placing a rose or lighting a candle to acknowledge each donor's gift. This service is attended by students, faculty, and administrators from the Rush community.