Issue 20.13
Cutting-edge science is beginning to unlock the anti-aging secrets of DNA that may reveal insights into staying healthy and living longer. Most of us are aware of the recent use of DNA for forensic purposes in identifying individuals, but what might be some of the health benefits? What is DNA? Why should we be interested?
We now understand that DNA contains a vast amount of information about who we are and who our ancestors were. It defines our physical traits and even determines whether we may pass certain diseases and conditions onto the next generation. The significance of DNA and telomeres in managing age-related conditions is a topic you’ll likely hear a lot more about in the future. Rapid advances in genetic research will lead to future treatments and cures that we can only dream about today for inherited diseases. Keeping a record of your family’s DNA now may be an important step in tracing the root cause of a disease and paving the way for future targeted treatments.
While this may be a new and novel concept, we at Serenity Funeral Care believe the preservation of this precious DNA information should be encouraged and facilitated. Whether you choose to preserve DNA for sentimental reasons or for potential future use, DNA Banking creates opportunities that would otherwise be lost forever. For this reason, we have chosen to partner with an international DNA Preservation company that has developed the technology to isolate DNA from the cell and preserve it. The company will take the samples we submit, isolate and process the DNA, place it in a secure container, and return it to the family for safe-keeping.
DNA samples can be taken from living or deceased individuals. DNA begins to degrade immediately upon death; therefore, if the person has passed away, the sample must be taken as soon as possible and prior to embalming or cremation. It is important to understand that the cremation process destroys all DNA.
If you are interested in learning more about securing and preserving your family’s genetic history, feel free to stop by our St. George office located just off Riverside Drive at 1316 S. 400 E., St. George, UT.
Dick Johnson is a funeral planner and co-owner of Serenity Funeral Care. You may contact Dick by dropping by the funeral home, or calling (435) 986-2085, or visit the website at www.serenityfuneralcare.org.