Why do autopsies

Why do autopsies?
Although the primary reason to perform an autopsy is to determine the cause of death, there are other benefits to individual families, to the practice of medicine, and to the community at large. The benefits include: allaying a family's fears about what they could have done to prevent the death providing family members information about potential genetic diseases that may have implications for them medical education, training and research leading to improved health care providing information about preventable causes of disease and accident and other public health hazards In addition, there are the forensic benefits of investigation of homicide, suspected homicide, other unexplained or suspicious deaths, and deaths apparently due to accident or injury. Studies have shown that in many cases even when the cause of death seemed clear, the person in fact had medical conditions that were not apparent during their life.
Who does an autopsy?
Forensic pathologists work in a mortuary and they are the ones who carry out detailed external and internal examinations of the body.

This newsletter will be updated monthly

Peter J Jackson, Funeral Directors

The Grief Experience

When people lose someone very close to them, or with whom they have shared a lifetime, it is often hard to believe that it really has happened. There is a wide range of intense feelings that follow. The sadness can be overwhelming; people are often surprised when they feel angry or guilty, but these emotions are common. There may be unpleasant physical symptoms which may need to be checked, but which will probably be normal for the time. In the early weeks there are often concentration problems and confusion. People may feel anxious and fearful for a time. Initially there are often many people around who can offer support, but as they disperse and get back to their busy lives there may be a long time of lonliness and gradual readjustment when it is better not to make hasty decisions. It is very important that the grieving person needs someone with whom to share their memories and yearning. One can achieve equilibrium with the right support. There are bereavement support groups which exist to help grieving people. Further information on support can be found on the website or by your Veterans' Affair contact officer or your local ex service group. Don't hesitate to get the right support for you.

This newsletter will be updated monthly.

Peter J Jackson, Funeral Directors