Brain Donation – Immediate Need

Thank you for considering brain donation.

We are sorry for the stress you are under. Coping with neurological decline and end of life is not easy. Our goal is to make the brain donation proceed smoothly, even if arranged on a last-minute basis. If you are able, please review the requirements and process for brain donation.

While brains must be recovered within 24 hours of death to be used for scientific research for a cure, we can often coordinate the process within only a few hours, depending on the time of day and the intended donor’s location. Please consult our webpage to learn how to ice the brain. Brain donation is still possible at this time despite COVID-19.

You are completing the “Immediate Need” form, indicating that end of life may be days or hours away. If the situation is not urgent, complete this other form. If end of life has already occurred, please complete this form.

We need some information from you quickly so that our brain donation case management team can begin addressing your request. Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required fields. Our first steps will be to (a) reach out to the funeral home or cremation service and (b) learn the availability of a pathology specialist in your area. We’ll then get back to you. If you have not selected a funeral home or cremation organization, we may be able to recommend a cooperative business to you, especially if you live in a major city.

If you have difficulty — for whatever reason — completing this form, please contact us. Alternatives are sending us the answers via email, fax (650-233-9278) , or screen shots. Or, we can take the information by phone during regular business hours if staff is available.

We are honored to assist your family.