Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep

Today, a fellow Goucherite Ly Nguyen posted a blog entry on Facebook that got some people talking about postmortem photography.  This used to be a very common practice, but in 2009, a lot of people think it's creepy and morbid.

For my manuscript, I interviewed a woman who volunteers for an organization called www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org  She is a photographer who takes pictures of babies who have died during birth.  The photographers who volunteer for this organization are amazing.  They are providing a valuable service to families who are in the deepest depths of grief.

I encourage everyone to go to their site to check it out.  Please watch the video on the About Us page.  Turn the sound on your computer up and listen to the lyrics.  Have some tissue at the ready.  I promise it is not gross or disturbing.  It's actually very tasteful and beautifully rendered art photography.

Alex, I'd like to Buy a Kidney Please

Well, for those who voted in the poll, we have 5 donors out there and 3 non-donors.  I'm an organ donor and I have the heart on my driver's license to prove it.  I don't care what they take. I just hope that maybe some of it can be of use to somebody.

If you click on the title, there's an excellent information site on organ donation.  If you decide to donate your organs, be sure and check with your state.  They all have different forms you have to fill out.  And be sure to let your family know your intention.  Or, you could just tattoo your body.

If you are thinking of donating your body to science, which is a whole other ball game, I totally recommend the book Stiff by Mary Roach.  Funny as hell and very informative.  Although, it might make you rethink your choice.  But, maybe not.  Hey, doctor's have to practice cosmetic surgery on somebody.

Living Wills

Well, the poll results were less than stellar on the living wills. Only five people voted. One of those people has a living will. Good on you. The other four, time to think about that. Including me. Note to self.

Next poll is, drum roll please, Are you an organ donor? Please vote. It makes me feel happy inside. You do want that don't you? September is a hard enough month, let's make it a little bit brighter.

I'm going to do a bit of research about what happens when you donate your organs, what you need to do, etc. But don't hold your breath about this post. I don't want anyone to pass out on me while I troll the internet for interesting tidbits.

Take care. And remember to floss.