Personal stories about having an autopsy done on your loved one
These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.
Luis, age 58: My mother was 82 when she died at home in her sleep. She lived a good, long life. She wasn't sick or anything, but knowing exactly how she died isn't that important to me. I am just glad she didn't seem to suffer.
Hazel, age 84: My husband George had Alzheimer's disease for many years. The last few years were very difficult for our family. I chose to have an autopsy done, because it may help doctors learn more about the disease so that someday they might find a cure.
Bill, age 54: Even though my wife, Stephanie, was a smoker for many years, we were still surprised when we found out she had lung cancer. It happened so fast. I still can't believe she is actually gone. I didn't have an autopsy, because it was clear how she died and why she was sick. Also, I was having a rough time and didn't think I could handle an autopsy after everything we'd been through.
Gwen, age 36: My father was only 68 when he died. He had a heart attack and died soon after he got to the hospital. Our family was stunned because my father seemed healthy. The doctor suggested an autopsy to give us some answers. It turned out that my father's arteries were partly blocked and this caused the heart attack even though he didn't have any symptoms. Learning this information gave us some comfort. It also prompted me to talk to my family and let my doctor know that heart disease could run in our family.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: November 28, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Corinne L. Fligner, MD - Anatomic Pathology | |
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