Giving back after death

SANDUSKY — All humans die, and most decide to be buried or cremated. But one local man has other plans for his remains. Bob McCormick, a retired lieutenant with the Sandusky Fire Department, intends to donate his body to science. Specifically, his remains will be donated the Cleveland Clinic's Cadaver Donation Program. Student doctors can examine the remains, and researchers will then use his body to further research and identify new ways to treat various illnesses and conditions. McCormick said that Cleveland Clinic will pick up and transport a person's remains at no cost to their family so long as the person died within a 100-mile radius of the clinic. "My family could save up to $10,000 in funeral costs," he said. McCormick's decision comes after a series of health issues and surgeries that racked up millions of dollars in medical bills. "Unfortunately, I had many health issues while serving at the fire department," McCormick said. "I have received over $6 million (in medical expenses for) surgery, including three blood transfusions done at the old Good Samaritan Hospital." McCormick acknowledges that his decision is uncommon, but due to his health issues, he believes it benefits not only him, but others. "The clinic will use my body for the cadaver training program, which allows medical students to study for future procedures," McCormick said. He added that the clinic will cremate his remains once the studies have been done. McCormick served Sandusky for 22 years and had to retire due to disability from his injuries. He hopes others see the benefits of body donation. "I encourage others to donate even if they don't have prior health issues," McCormick said. "Their bodies can still be used for study." Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to donate. Prospective donors should pre-register with the Cleveland Clinic. However, the next of kin may donate the body if the deceased individual is not pre-registered. For more information, people may contact the Body Donation Program at BodyDonation@ccf.org or call 216-444-6870 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.