Preserving a Loved One’s DNA
Earlier this week, I gave DIY instructions for how to preserve your own DNA as well as those of family members (and, I suppose, whoever else you can grab). Orchid Cellmark has a morbid, but novel idea of preserving the DNA of loved ones who’ve died. (Orchid Cellmark Press Release, June 20, 2005)
A record of an individual’s DNA can provide a number of safeguards to families — as a possible protection against future estate or lineage issues, as a way to trace family genealogy and identify ancestry, and so families may be able to track more detailed information about their medical history as technology advances.
Offered through funeral homes as an optional step before burial or cremation, a DNA sample is obtained via a cheek swab. The Heritage ID product line includes a Heritage Card(TM), a long-term storage card containing the preserved DNA sample. This card even has a Lucite holder that they say is suitable for display or storage.
Displaying a loved one’s DNA on the sideboard reminds me of the current trend in Japan – ornaments composed of the ashes of the deceased and crystals or artificial stone. When I get around to collecting my family’s DNA, I’ll have to do something snazzy to dress it up.
Pointer from Genealogy Blog.
This is extremely interesting… descendants and lineage and cheeck swab!
Thanks for the comment, silly girl. DNA is powerful stuff and can be so easily obtained!
May i enquire on the possibilities to obtain legal rights for distributionship – DNA Jewel in Asia?
David, unfortunately I don’t have any information about distributorship.