Donations
Donate to the Southwest Brain Bank (SWBB)
Your decision to donate is a gift to future generations, helping advance research into mental health and other conditions.
Why Donate?
Brain donation supports critical research into mental illnesses such as:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Major depression
Donations from individuals without mental illnesses are equally vital to compare healthy brains with those affected by these disorders. Your contribution is a precious gift of life, and all information is kept confidential.
How to Donate
Option 1: Register as a Prospective Donor
- Step 1: Contact the SWBB to register with the Longitudinal Donation Program.
- Step 2: A representative will guide you through the process and collect your medical and psychiatric history.
- Step 3: The SWBB will stay in touch periodically to keep your information up-to-date.
Option 2: Next of Kin Consent
- At the time of death: A family member can provide consent for brain donation.
- Follow-up: SWBB staff will conduct an in-depth interview about the deceased approximately six weeks later.
Who Can Donate?
We accept donations from:
- Adults with psychiatric illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression)
- Adults without psychiatric illnesses (for comparison studies)
Note: Donations from individuals who have been on ventilators or have certain infectious illnesses cannot be accepted.
The Donation Process
- Timing: Brain donation must occur within 48 hours of death to ensure the tissue is suitable for research.
- Procedure: The brain is removed during autopsy at a morgue, hospital, or funeral home and transported
to the SWBB.
- This process does not cause disfigurement.
- Open casket or traditional funeral arrangements are still possible.
- Cost: There is no cost for brain donation, but funeral arrangements remain the responsibility of the family.
Have Questions or Want to Learn More?
For additional information or to begin the donation process, contact the Southwest Brain Bank at:
Southwest Brain Bank
Texas Tech Health El Paso
Toll Free: 1-833-811-0013
Email: swbb.elp@ttuhsc.edu