Amidst the bustling city of Frankfurt, lies a quiet place of reflection, the Körperspender memorial. This is a collective grave. It honors those who bequeathed their bodies to science. The inscription reads, “In gratitude to those who served research and teaching.” It continues, “The learners and teachers of the Department of Medicine of the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University.” The Körperspender program, administered by the Institute for Plastination, allows individuals to donate their bodies for anatomical teaching, research, and medical education. This isn’t a binding contract. It’s a declaration of will, revocable at any time. The institute isn’t obligated to accept every body. The donor isn’t obligated to follow through. There are no fees for donors, and no compensation is provided. Interestingly, Körperspender can also be organ donors. Organ donation takes precedence if possible. The Institute will still accept the body after organ removal, if it is transferred immediately. The process involves completing forms and carrying a donor card. The Institute requests notification as soon as possible after a donor’s death. They arrange transfer within Germany. For donors outside Germany, transport is the responsibility of the family. The inscription at the Körperspender memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the selfless contribution these individuals made. They advanced medical understanding.
Adlerwerke
From bicycles to Nazi atrocities, the Adlerwerke in Frankfurt has witnessed a tumultuous history. The Adlerwerke, meaning “Eagle Works,” began