SC Connecticut News

Medical students at Yale School of Medicine (YSM) recently held their annual Service of Gratitude to honor individuals who donated their bodies to science. This event marks the conclusion of the year-long Anatomy course, a critical component in medical education where students learn about human anatomy through dissection.

Javier Sanchez, co-president of the YSM MD Class of 2027, expressed the significance of this experience: “As medical students, our journey through Anatomy has been more than just a rite of passage. It has been an intimate and humbling experience that has deepened our commitment to the field of medicine.” He emphasized the importance of donors' contributions to both personal growth and professional development.

The ceremony on September 25 was organized by Sanchez and his fellow class co-president Jason Weinstein at the Anlyan Center. It featured remarks, musical performances, and artwork dedicated to expressing gratitude toward donors and their families. For the first time, relatives of donors were invited to participate in this event. Addressing them, Sanchez stated, “Your presence means so much to us. On this night of reflection, we are deeply grateful for your choice to be part of this evening—and in doing so, a part of our journey.”

Weinstein also conveyed his appreciation: “Tonight, as we are gathered here, we are reminded of the incredible generosity that has brought us together—the extraordinary gift of your loved ones.” He highlighted how these contributions shape medical professionals not only technically but also personally.

To honor each family’s contribution, peace lilies were given as tokens symbolizing rebirth and renewal. Weinstein explained that these plants represent how donors’ legacies continue through future care provided by medical students.

The event included various student contributions such as video messages and musical performances. Uma Alappan performed “Over the Rainbow,” while Rebecca Chang and Tiffany Jiang played “Salut d’Amour” by Edward Elgar. Cecelia Tamburro led attendees in singing “How Great Thou Art,” invoking a sense of wonder and gratitude.

Faculty members also participated in reflecting on the impact Anatomy had on students. Linda Honan recalled meeting students when they first entered the anatomy room: “That was the day that solidified the reality that you are really doing this.” Charles Duncan thanked students for respecting donors' decisions: "In life they made a magnanimous decision...I suspect the impact will reverberate with you for many years."

John Francis spoke about altruism involved in body donation: "The gift...is truly an act...that enables students at YSM to learn." He acknowledged families' roles saying they enable thousands of future patients' benefits from gained knowledge.