​University of Calgary
Cumming School of Medicine Body Donation Program

The Cumming School of Medicine Body Donation Program at the University of Calgary coordinates the acceptance and preparation of generously donated bodies for the purposes of medical education. The generosity of Albertans wishing to leave a legacy following their death through the donation of their bodies is greatly appreciated and contributes to the education and ongoing professional development of physicians, nurses and allied healthcare practitioners. To determine and confirm eligibility, a brief questionnaire is administered when notification of death is provided. 

Consent Criteria for Potential Donations

According to current Alberta legislation consent for donation may be provided by the following individuals, in priority order:
  1. Adult deceased person if they legally authorized their donation prior to their death
  2. The executor appointed by the deceased
  3. The spouse or adult interdependent partner of the person if they are not estranged
  4. An adult child of the person
  5. A parent or guardian of the person
  6. An adult sibling of the person
  7. Any other adult next of kin of the person.
In the case consent has not been legally authorized by a potential donor prior to their death adult next-of-kin may provide consent as long as:
  1. A person in a higher priority class is not readily available to provide a consent;
  2. A person in the same class would not refuse to give a consent;
  3. The deceased person would not have refused to give a consent.
More information on U of C website.
This information is provided with permission from the Cumming School of Medicine.

University of Alberta
Anatomical Gifts Program​​

  • People may wish to bequeath their body for anatomical studies, thereby making a lasting contribution to the advancement of the medical sciences.
  • Anatomical gifts are used for teaching courses in human anatomy to medical, dental and allied health professional students. The course helps to familiarize students with anatomical relationships in the body that are essential for understanding the progression and treatment of human diseases.
  • Anatomical donations are regarded by the medical community as precious gifts to medical education. Donors and their families can be assured their contribution is greatly appreciated by both students and faculty. All anatomical donations are treated with utmost respect.
  • For more information on this important program, please contact our Anatomical Gifts Program Manager, Jason Papirny at (780) 492-2203 or email jpapirny@ualb
​More information on U of A website.
This information is provided with permission from the University of Alberta.