On Friday 2nd May, the Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) Anatomy Learning Centre team hosted a service of thanksgiving dedicated to those who donated their bodies for the teaching of anatomy and the furtherance of medical education.
The service began with a welcome speech by Reverend David Stroud, followed by Professor Chris Holland, Dean of KMMS and Professor Becky Huxley-Binns, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost of CCCU. Chris emphasised the profound significance of body donation, stating, “We come together to honour the extraordinary generosity of those who, in death, chose to make a final gift: the donation of their bodies for the teaching of anatomy”. He continued, “These individuals — whom we did not know personally, yet who have touched each of us profoundly — offered themselves so that future doctors, surgeons, and health professionals might learn, improve, and ultimately save and heal others. Their selflessness has shaped the hands and minds of generations of students”.
The Anatomy Thanksgiving Tree
Attendees then reflected on our “silent teachers” of anatomy through a variety of heartfelt contributions, performed by staff and students. Year 2 student Cassandra George shared her personal reflection, ‘From Here Onwards‘, while fellow Year 2 students Hellen Yuan and Katie Glover offered musical tributes: ‘平凡之路 (The Ordinary Way)’ and ‘I Gioini’ on piano, respectively.
Teaching staff also paid tribute, with words from Dr Melissa Jones, Head of Anatomy, and Vanessa Nhara, Anatomy Lecturer at KMMS.
Butterfly cards and Thanksgiving pins were handed out at the service
The service concluded with an opportunity for attendees to express their gratitude, writing thank you notes, lighting candles, and contributing to a collaborative art piece that will be displayed in the Anatomy Learning Centre for the next year.
A remarkable number of attendees came to show their support on the day, which reflects just how important it is to all staff and students involved in Anatomy teaching and learning at CCCU and KMMS.