Cryonics: Frozen Death
Science fiction movies perpetuate the belief that, one day, everyone’s bodies will be frozen when we die, so they can one day be restored. While the concept has not yet caught on en masse, the process of cryonics exists, and remains an option for the well-endowed. One of the most popular organizations, the Cryonics Institute, offers freezing for members who pay a one-time fee of $1,250 plus $28,000 for cryopreservation. This is a steal, compared to the $200,000 that Arizona-based cryonic company, Alcor charges for essentially the same process.
Avoiding Death
The fundamental goal of cryonics is to give people a second chance at life. With the experimental goal to extend human lifespans and improve quality of life through applied technology, the process involves cooling a legally deceased person as quickly as possible, often with liquid nitrogen, to a temperature where physical decay essentially stops. All this with the goal of preserving tissue, organs and especially the brain – including associated memories and personality, as perfectly as possible.
Vitrification
The process, called Vitrification (not freezing), preserves biological structure. Adding high concentrations of chemicals called cryoprotectants to cells permits tissue to be cooled to very low temperatures with little or no ice formation. The state of the absence of ice formation at temperatures below -120°C is called vitrification. It is now possible to physically vitrify organs as large as the human brain, achieving excellent structural preservation without freezing.
Future World
With advances in biology, medicine, computers, nanotechnology and more, science may be able to meet the challenge of reviving patients to restore health, vitality and, possibly, even youth. Essentially, the concept is to “buy time” until technology catches up and can fully repair and restore the human body. Cryonicists believe this future is not only possible, but highly probable and many have decided to spend a small fortune for the chance at a renewed life in the future. Patients currently cryopreserved include people from all walks of life.
Cryonics in Action
Since 1967, facilities have cryopreserved one hundred people. What’s more, one thousand people have made legal and financial arrangements for cryonics through one of several organizations. The process is best when it begins within moments of cardiac arrest. Workers artificially restore blood circulation and breathing. They also administer a series of medications to protect the brain from the side effects of lack of oxygen. Rapid cooling also begins, which further protects the brain. The goal is to keep the brain alive for as long as possible.
About Foothill Funeral & Cremation
Do not have access to tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars to have your body frozen? If not, don’t despair. We have lots of affordable options for burial and/or cremation. Give us a call (626) 335-0615 or drop by our Glendora showroom. In Covina, our relationship with Sacred Heart Chapel is the perfect place for mourners to host funerals and memorial services in a grandiose yet intimate setting. We proudly serve the San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles Basin, Orange County and the Inland Empire. Working in the mortuary industry since 1996, we have worked hard to build a reputation of quality, sincerity and trust. Please allow us to help you at your time of need or in the future. Call today (626) 335-0615 or drop by our showroom.
