Where do you live? In the US, a will is read generally after the funeral and your wishes would not be known till then. Where I live, bodies are donated to our local University where they are used for teaching purposes. After their need has been met, the body is cremated and the remains returned to the family.I have never heard about a body being refused.
In the U.S. there are 2 documents, my lawyer insisted on it. Last Will and Testament, Durable General Power of Attorney, Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains, Health Care Proxy, New York Living will. OK 5. The Health Care Proxy contains a section for donation of organs and tissue for research and I designated for Parkinson's. But I do believe I need to revise and be more specific. Also review is in order anyway. Good question.
When my brother died last April of ALS his final wish was that his brain be donated for research. I contacted the University of Michigan ALS research lab and they sent a booklet that explained just what would need to happen: papers to be signed, protocols to be followed. He read it all and emailed back: "Let's go for it! Luv, Doug" That was enough permission. He died on Easter Sunday in Mobile, AL, but I was able to contact University of MI who contacted U. of South Alabama in Mobile and they were able to harvest his brain within the required 24 hours from time of death.
It takes work ahead of time, but his last wish was fulfilled and the research lab people were extremely appreciative. It was an Easter I'll never forget.
As you are in the UK, my earlier answer applies. In a nutshell, you will need to register your intentions with the HTA; make a clause in your will, and make sure your doctor(s) are aware. If you contact HTA on 020 7211 3400 they will send you the necessary forms and information.
I feel you should go to a lawyer and have help in doning this correctly. There are too many "WHat ifs" involved. You will have peace of mind. They are not so costly now.
In Maine, you contact the nearest college that teaches doctors. When my brother-in-law passed away, the papers were already signed and the school picked him right up at the morgue and sent back his ashes a year later.
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