National Brain Donation Awareness Day
National Brain Donation Awareness Day is a dedicated observance to raise awareness about the critical importance of brain donation for neuroscience research and advancing our understanding of neurological disorders.
Quick Facts
When is it: May 7th annually
Tagged as: Brain Research Awareness
What’s the hashtag: #BrainDonationDay
When was it founded: 2022
Who founded it: The Brain Donor Project
History of Brain Donation Awareness Day
The day was established to honor Gene Armentrout, whose brain donation in 2015 inspired the creation of The Brain Donor Project. The date May 7th was chosen as it would have been his 86th birthday. The day received bipartisan Congressional support through Resolution H. Res. 1069, introduced by Representatives Earl Blumenauer and Brian Fitzpatrick.
Timeline
- 2015: Gene Armentrout’s brain donation
- 2016: Formation of The Brain Donor Project
- 2022: First official National Brain Donation Awareness Day
- 2023: Resolution reintroduced (H. Res. 361)
Future Dates 2025-2030
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 7 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | May 7 | Thursday |
| 2027 | May 7 | Friday |
| 2028 | May 7 | Sunday |
| 2029 | May 7 | Monday |
| 2030 | May 7 | Tuesday |
How It’s Observed
People observe this day by learning about brain donation, registering as donors, and discussing their wishes with family members. Organizations host awareness campaigns and educational events about the importance of brain donation for scientific research.
Fun Facts About Brain Donation
- Brain donation is separate from regular organ donation
- The procedure is not disfiguring and allows for open-casket funerals
- Both healthy and affected brains are valuable for research
- There is no cost to families when donating to NIH brain banks
- One in six Americans has a neurological disease or disorder
Quiz
- When is National Brain Donation Awareness Day?
- Who can become a brain donor?
- Does brain donation interfere with funeral arrangements?
- Is there a cost associated with brain donation?
-(Answers: May 7th; Anyone over 18; No; No cost when donating to NIH banks)
FAQs
- Is brain donation different from organ donation?
- Can I have an open casket funeral after brain donation?
- How do I register to become a brain donor?
- Can I change my mind after registering?
Related
- Brain Awareness Week
- World Brain Day
- National Science Day
- Medical Research Day
- Neuroscience Awareness Month
