We believe donating one’s body to science is a tremendous gift and enduring legacy, reflecting an extraordinary commitment to life and to the well being of others. We at the MERI and the Genesis program remain extremely grateful for the wonderfully selfless nature of our donors and their most precious gift of life. 

*****

At this time of year when we recognize our families and special groups and count our blessings, I'd like to feature the Medical Education Research Institute. They deserve the same attention and accolades that have been bestowed upon other groups and individuals in recent weeks. They are a wonderful group of people who treat families with undue compassion and dignity in times of great sadness.

In September, MERI conducted a beautiful service at Memorial Gardens to honor and thank the donor families of 2010, of which there were 600. It was an awesome and unforgettable experience, including a spiritual message, a four-gun salute and release of doves. Memphis is fortunate to have such a fine organization.

N. R. Dowling

 

*****

Elvis Ray Swain

To the MERI:

It's not the things that can be bought that are life's richest treasure. It's friends like you which money cannot measure. You looked and saw that was once a waste could become priceless treasure to the MERI. You did so with a cheerful smile, a friendly word and realized there are things that can't be bought with silver or gold, but thoughtfulness and kindness which are priceless things in life for which no one can buy. It warms my heart just in knowing you cared to give to a worthwhile need such as the MERI. I wanted to thank you for taking the time to be kind and that the thoughtfulness you give returns to shine on you.

From my heart, thank you,

My Dad & Barbara

*****

Willy Wiseman

Willy Wiseman was my stepdad for 30 years. Together, he and my mom, Eve, lived at various times in Alabama, Texas, Louisiana, and finally Tennessee, where they moved in 2000 to be near our family. Willy enjoyed spending time entertaining and visiting with the many people who knew and loved him. He was treasured for his talent as a storyteller, his excellent skills as a cook, and his willingness to help anyone in need. Early in my career, he and my mom helped me move so many times he said the furniture still shook every time he got near it.

Willy was a true character. He often told the story of removing his own braces so he would look old enough to join the service. He served in the U.S. Army at Ft. Benning, GA, and was honorably discharged as an instructor in the Airborne School. He also served as a cook during his time at Ft. Benning, and continued to use his culinary skills to our delight until just several months before his death. Willy’s most coveted creation was his masterfully prepared smoked tenderloins. He cooked them as joyfully for family celebrations as he did for a group of homeless men at Room at the Inn. He willingly shared his cooking techniques with the many people who joined him at the smoker with a bottle of beer or a glass of wine in hand. He and my mom taught most of his grandchildren to fish, and he spent hour after hour restringing as many rods and fish hooks as needed in the process. In his later years, Willy enjoyed following his grandson, Allen’s, college baseball career.

Willy’s legacy of helping others continues with his willed anatomical donation to the Medical Education and Research Institute of Memphis, TN. A celebration of his life is planned for a future date. Willy is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, Eva C. Wiseman of Franklin, TN, his grown children from a previous marriage; his loving stepchildren and their spouses: Diana and Kenny, Shelly and John, and Doug; his grandchildren and their spouses Kelly and Jimmy, Allen and Crissy, Rachael, Noah and Emelyn; and his great grandchild, Jay.

Willy will be missed more than he could have known. We were blessed to have him in our lives.
Shelly G. Cook

*****

Mike Bearden

Mike Bearden left this life a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, mentor and instructor. His love and genuine care flowed out of him in every story he would relive about his family, friends, and students. As a tribute from his students, I would like to take this opportunity to tell his family how reverenced he is among us. We were with him through his fight and watched him persevere everyday. He not only taught us about calculus and physics, but about how important life is and how we have to cherish each moment for we know not when it is going to be our final. He was and will forever be one of the most influential people in my life. He will, for decades to come, be rendered dearly in all of our hearts. My prayer is for the family to find comfort and guidance, and be able to relish in the knowledge that the world will forever be changed by Michael Bearden. He is truly a legacy that will live on.

We love you, Mr. Bearden.

Morgan Justice and NACC Students

*****

Connie Jane West

Born: July 8 1953
Died: Jan 16 2010

My beloved wife was taken from us 1/16/10
and we left here behind surely miss her.
Throughout her life she was a giving, caring
individual who always looked out for others
before herself.

She was a devoted wife, mother, and sister.
In her death she still wanted to give to others
and requested that when she passed she
would be donated to medical research.
This she has done, and we are very proud of her.
We hope that many may benefit from
her unselfish gift.

*****

I just wanted to share with you something very special.

My dad passed away many months ago. I miss him so much it hurts. He was an amazing person, filled with love and happiness, always sharing it with everyone. And in his passing, he's still doing great things...as you know.

I just wanted to share with you that I have his swing in my yard, on a hill, overlooking a lake with an amazing view of the beautiful sky. On each side of the swing we planted some small gardenia bushes, my favorite.

Well, today my dad came home and today my gardenia bloomed it's very first flower!! One on each bush!!! He's home!! He's really home!! You are special to me and my dad. I wanted to share this with you. Thank you.

Kandi

James Walter Barlow
   July 1943 - October 2008
Always In Our Hearts Daddy
I love you

*****

If you would like to post a remembrance of a Genesis donor please contact us:

By E-mail:
genesis@meri.org

By Fax:
(901) 722-9392

By Mail:
Genesis Donor Program
Medical Education & Research Institute
44 South Cleveland
Memphis, TN 38104