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Memorials honor gifts to medical science  by Cindy Abole Public Relations Nothing can be more inviting than a couple of benches shaded by a young oak tree, crepe myrtles and red tip bushes. This secluded spot on the grounds of St. Luke Chapel was designed to refresh the soul. Dr. Richard M. Dom, director of MUSC’s Anatomical Body Gift Program, stands nearby the new marker at St. Luke’s Chapel. Last December, an engraved marker was placed in a far corner of the chapel garden to commemorate the hundreds of individuals who gave to MUSC’s Anatomical Body Gift Program. The time of its placement coincided with the university’s annual memorial service honoring donors, families and friends. “I think we’re a little more sensitive to the subject than most other medical schools,” said Richard M. Dom, Ph.D., professor of cell biology and anatomy and program director. “We try to honor the wishes of the family and their loved one.” Each year, the body gift program receives more than 100 donations from throughout South Carolina. The bodies are used to help teach anatomy to physician's assistants, occupational and physical therapy, dental medicine and medical students. On occasion, the program honors requests from orthopaedics, neurosurgery and other departments to aid students and residents in practicing surgical procedures.  “We felt an obligation to recognize these individuals,” Dom said. “Having this memorial marker placed at St. Luke’s honors them as part of their contribution to the university.” Following their use, the cadavers are cremated and sent for burial at St. Lawrence Cemetery, located off of Meeting Street. A similar concrete marker and benches were also placed for visitors at that location. A family may also make arrangements to obtain a donor’s remains for a fee.  “These individuals have done a great service for the medical profession and the people of South Carolina,” Dom said. “It’s their farsightedness that has benefitted mankind.”