Leaving a lasting legacy: my visit to the MS Society Tissue Bank
10-16 March marks Brain Awareness Week – an opportunity to reflect on the benefits of brain research and the progress we’re making. Our Tissue Bank is key to helping us understand what happens in the brain in MS.
MS is a uniquely human condition, and to understand its causes and development researchers need to look at how it affects the human brain. The MS Society Tissue Bank allows people to donate their brain and spinal cord tissue for MS research after their death. It's a vital resource, with donated tissue helping scientists around the world advance our understanding of MS.
We caught up with our Legacies Lead Sarah to find out about her recent visit to the Tissue Bank.
Leaving a legacy to MS research
We frequently receive questions from supporters and their families – not only about writing their wills, but also about the possibility of donating their brain and spinal cord to support MS research.
To better answer these questions and to provide insight for our team, I recently had the chance to visit the MS Society Tissue Bank, based at Imperial College London.
Learning firsthand
During my visit I gained a deeper appreciation of the meticulous work that goes into preparing and preserving donated tissue. These samples support cutting-edge research projects in the UK and around the world.
I learned that every donation plays a vital part in helping researchers understand the mechanisms behind MS.
I was deeply moved by the care and sensitivity with which the team handled the samples.
Seeing research in action
I had the privilege to watch as a donated brain was carefully processed, divided into around 250 samples and securely stored for future study.
One particularly powerful moment was watching as the researcher carefully prepared small sections of the brain for detailed study. As he examined the samples, he explained how different areas revealed insights into the donor's life and medical history. This experience underscored the critical role every donation plays in advancing our understanding of MS.
A big thank you
I want to give my thanks to the people who have generously donated their tissue to the Tissue Bank after their death. And to the dedicated staff for offering such an interesting and informative experience.
Their care and commitment mean that every aspect of tissue collection, storage and use is handled with the utmost respect. Ultimately supporting vital research that helps improve lives. It truly was an eye-opening experience.
It’s a unique opportunity to see how the legacy of our supporters is transforming lives and shaping the future of MS research.
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