How to become a brain donor

"We must find a cure. The work of researchers holds so much promise. It gives people like me hope – that one day we will live in a world without Parkinson's."

Marjorie Pooley, whose late husband Dennis Pooley had Parkinson's

Essential research relies upon the generosity of donors and their families who make the vital gift of brain donation after death.

So far, we have collected over 350 brains. But this is not enough to meet the growing demand from researchers.

• Sign up to the Parkinson's Brain Donor Register
• People's brain donation stories
• Find out more about the Parkinson's Brain Bank

Sign up to the Parkinson's Brain Donor Register

1. Request a Brain Donor Register information pack
   
   
2. Complete and return the paperwork.
   
   
3. We will confirm your registration and send you your Parkinson's Brain Donor Card.
   
   
4. Once you are registered tell those closest to you about your decision and always carry your donor card.

Joining the Parkinson's Brain Donor Register gives your agreement to use your brain, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid and potentially other tissue for research after your death.

People's brain donation stories

"Brain donation is a vital gift. I urge people with Parkinson's, their family and friends to consider joining our Brain Donor Register."

Dr George Gveric, Parkinson's Brain Bank Manager

Pam's story

When Pam and her husband Geoff, who had Parkinson's, heard about the Parkinson's Brain Bank they both decided to sign up.

"Although we both realised that a cure might not come in time to help Geoff, we wanted to play our part in helping scientists move closer to a cure.

"I was never prouder than at my husband's funeral last year when our rector told the congregation about Geoff's decision."

Pam, registered donor

Denise's story

Denise does not have Parkinson's but signed up to the brain donor register in 2009. Her father Michael, pictured below with her mum Pamela, was diagnosed with Parkinson's at just 57.

"I wanted to do anything I could to help with research. After all, my brain will be of no further use to me when I die, but it might help others fight Parkinson's.

"It doesn't matter if my donation helps future generations of our family, or a total stranger. I just don't want anyone to go through what my dad did."

Denise, registered donor

Christine's story

Christine's husband Martyn developed Parkinson's in his thirties. Christine, Martyn, and both their sons made the decision to become registered donors.

"My whole family are behind the idea of brain donation – I think everybody should think about donating their brains and helping scientists find a cure for Parkinson's."

"It is very important that people without the condition join as well. Scientists have to compare the brains of people with Parkinson's to brains that are not affected by the condition.

Christine, registered donor

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