Willed Body Program

Many people wish to bequeath their bodies for anatomical studies and medical research, thereby making a unique contribution to the advancement of medicine. In recognition of this wish, The Trillium Gift of Life Network Act (2002) allows for such bequeathals, provided that there is no objection by the next-of-kin or executor at the time of death. Persons who bequeath their bodies to the University of Toronto and their families may be assured that all human remains are accorded the dignity and respect that society customarily grants to the dead. Students preparing themselves for medical, dental and allied health professions are fully aware of the special privilege granted to them by law, and the obligation they have to conduct themselves in a professional manner during their anatomical studies. 

How to arrange the donation of your body 

Most people who wish to bequeath their bodies to the University quite naturally think of including a statement like the following in their Wills:

"Upon my death, I direct that my body, if acceptable and needed for anatomical studies and medical research, be delivered to the Division of Anatomy at the University of Toronto (or to the nearest Medical School)."

Writing such a statement in a Will, however does not ensure that your wishes will be carried out because cremation and/or burial often take place before the Will is read. In order that your wish be followed, we suggest that you complete a Donation Consent Form. The form is completed in duplicate and the original is then returned to the Division of Anatomy at the University of Toronto where it is kept on file. 

To obtain a copy of the Donation Consent Form and details of the Willed Body Program please contact the Division of Anatomy as indicated below:

Request in writing:
Division of Anatomy
University of Toronto
Room 1156, 1 King's College Circle
University of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
M5S 1A8

Request by telephone: Anatomy Office: 416-978-2692

Request by email (please include your full mailing address & postal code with request): willedbodyprogram@utoronto.ca