2026 UCSD Body Donation Memorial Service

2026 UCSD Body Donation Memorial Service

The 2026 UCSD Body Donation Memorial Service is open to the family and friends of loved ones who donated their bodies to science. Join the faculty and students from the 2025/2026 UCSD School of Medicine and the Skaggs School of Pharmacy in honoring the gift from your loved one who selflessly donated their body. Their gift will further advance medicine for generations to come.

2026 UCSD Whole Body Donation Memorial Service Details

The service on Sunday, May 31st, starts at 6 PM with doors opening at 5 PM. The venue is the Epstein Family Amphitheater on the University of California, San Diego campus. This recent addition to the campus is a beautiful open-air theater with plenty of seating. The program invites friends and family to attend the free event. Parking is available at the Gilman Parking Structure. Transportation from the garage to the venue is available. The program is providing light refreshment.s

History of the UCSD Whole Body Donation Program

UCSD School of Medicine was founded in 1966. In 1968, the first cohort of students entered the program in 1968 with the first whole body donations. In the five decades since, the program has grown to accept the bodies of donors who believe in forwarding education and research in anatomy.

Benefits of the UCSD Whole Body Donation Program

Being a whole body donor requires a conversation with yourself, your loved ones, and the program. Additionally, body donors benefit from knowing that they are contributing to the betterment of mankind. Many donors die without anyone to receive their remains or tend a grave. Some donors find relief knowing that their body disposition choice is free of charge. Finally, knowing that their remains will find their final resting spot in the Pacific Ocean is also a motivation to sign the donor papers.

My Connection to the UCSD Whole Body Donation Program

I have many personal connections with the UCSD Whole Body Donation Program. I am a registered whole body donor. After many conversations with my husband and kids, I felt comfortable in signing and submitting my donor application.

On September 1, 2025, my client Roseana Spangler-Sims’ body was picked up by the program representatives after she exercised her right to body autonomy through Medical Aid in Dying, surrounded by her loved ones. Roseana’s journey is featured in this People.com series. Her impact on my life continues through my “Terminal Talk” support group for people living with a life-limiting diagnosis.