UPCOMING BOARD MEETING
The next Board meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2010, at the Alcor facility (7895 East Acoma Drive in Scottsdale, AZ) at 11:00 AM (MT). Members and the public are encouraged to attend.
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The next Board meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2010, at the Alcor facility (7895 East Acoma Drive in Scottsdale, AZ) at 11:00 AM (MT). Members and the public are encouraged to attend.
Out of the seven candidates set aside for interviews, two were no longer available and one changed her mind. The four remaining candidates were interviewed. Recently there has been an increase in new applications and resumes submitted to the committee. From these new applicants there are five additional candidates the committee would like to interview.
Team Training
The Arizona Regional Response Team held an afternoon of training on January 23rd at Alcor Central. With 19 volunteers attending, not including Alcor staff, this session was the largest turnout that Alcor has had in a long time. It is encouraging to see the return of strong local enthusiasm not only for our local members, but also for members that relocate to Scottsdale/Phoenix when they are facing terminal health issues. This training event was followed by a CryoFeast that was hosted by Bonnie Magee, Alcor's Finance Director. Thanks to Jack St. Claire for offering his home as the cryonics clubhouse in Scottsdale.
Member Watch List
We are continuing to see an increase in the level of members contacting Alcor in advance of their scheduled procedures, diagnostic tests or just updates on health developments. This type of proactive communication is exactly what we are promoting to better track our members' heath issues.
During the course of January, our members had five different surgeries, four diagnostic tests and three members were diagnosed with cancer for the first time.
This increase raises Alcor's Orange Alert watch list to ten. To be tracked on this list a member may be diagnosed with a terminal condition; be undergoing a non-elective surgical procedure; or whose health is severely compromised due to an underlying medical condition.
Membership
Alcor had 915 members on its Emergency Responsibility List. Six (6) memberships were approved during this month, no memberships were reinstated, three (3) memberships were cancelled and one (1) member was cryopreserved. Overall, there was a net gain of two (2) members this month.
Applicants
Alcor had 62 applicants for membership. Eight (8) new applicants were added and six (6) applicants were converted to members. Seven (7) applicants were cancelled for the following reasons: one (1) applicant changed his mind; and six (6) did not wish to pay the extended application fee to remain in the queue. There was a net loss of five (5) applicants for this month.
Information Packets
Alcor received 156 information packet requests. Eight (8) were handed out during facility tours or from special request. The average total of 156 info packs sent per month in 2010 is compared to 188 in 2009.
Alcor Life Extension Foundation Attempts To Fulfill Wishes of Colorado Springs Woman
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA Prior to death, Ms. Robbins made a valid, written donation of her body to Alcor pursuant to the Colorado Disposition of Last Remains Act and Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. Ms. Robbins wanted to be cryopreserved, and she made her long-standing intentions known for years. Additionally, she made financial arrangements to pay for cryopreservation using a $50,000 annuity with Alcor as the beneficiary. Ms. Robbins's family is now claiming that her long-standing request to be cryopreserved was changed shortly before she died. However, Alcor has yet to receive any written documentation changing Ms. Robbins's wish to be cryopreserved. Eric Bentley, the Colorado attorney for Alcor stated, "Alcor simply wants to fulfill the documented wishes of Ms. Robbins to be cryopreserved. Ms. Robbins was competent when she made arrangements to be cryopreserved, she expressed that intention in writing, and Alcor wants to carry out her wishes." Alcor intends to state its case in court pursuant to legally binding documents, the governing statutes, and the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. Ms. Robbins is being maintained at the temperature of dry ice (-79 degrees Celsius) at a Colorado Springs funeral home pending resolution of the matter. False Statements It has been alleged in news media stories that Alcor requires invasive medical interventions to be performed prior to legal death, including placement of tubes in the nose and throat, and administration of medications. This is incorrect. Alcor requires no such interventions. Alcor does not participate in the medical care of patients, or perform any medical interventions prior to legal death. The objective of Alcor's procedures is to limit injury to the brain after legal pronouncement of death. About the Alcor Life Extension Foundation The Alcor Life Extension Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1972, is the world leader in cryonics, and cryonics technology. Cryonics is the science of using ultra-cold temperatures to cryopreserve humans. The intent is that technologically advanced scientific procedures may one day be able to revive cryopreserved humans and restore them to good health. Alcor performed its first human cryopreservation in 1976. Since then, Alcor has engaged in long-term care of cryopreserved patients as well as cryopreservation. Among Alcor's scientific achievements is the use of advanced cryoprotectant formulas capable of vitrification, which enables cryopreservation to take place with reduced damage to the patient. Today, Alcor has more than 900 members and 90 cryopreserved patients. The public is welcome to attend regularly scheduled tours of the Alcor facility. For more information about Alcor and cryonics, visit www.alcor.org.
On February 9, 2010, Mary Robbins was pronounced legally dead. Ms. Robbins was a long-term member of Alcor Life Extension Foundation. Alcor is a science-based state-of-the-art research facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. Alcor preserves bodies at ultra-cold temperatures to achieve biostasis at a temperature at which all cell deterioration stops.
Where: Terasem Central in Melbourne, Central East coast of Florida
When: April 9, 10, 11, 2010-- Schedule to be available late February.
Cryonics technology is more advanced than even most signed up cryonicists realize.
Most people in the scientific community do not realize what progress has been made and most cryonicists do not realize the protocols and technologies that have been developed in the service of making cryonics a true "evidence based technology."
Details of cryonics protocols, procedures, and logistics from start to finish --Confirmed presenters include Alcor Life Extension Foundation Transport Coordinator - Aaron Drake; Cryonics Institute President - Ben Best; and Suspended Animation, Inc. General Manager - Catherine Baldwin. Suspended Animation, Inc. protocols and technologies are now available for members of both CI and Alcor.
The meeting will develop agreements, logistics, administrative protocols, relationships, and a sense of community. The meeting will also include watching, and to an extent participating, in the technical training for "First Responders" in standby situations. This will also serve as a refresher course for medical professionals and first responders, including the existing Brevard County Medical Team.
The cost for the conference is anticipated to be zero or low. Hotel room group rates are available at the Doubletree Guest Suites, Melbourne Beach Oceanfront by calling 321-723-4222. The room rate is $109 per night, and shared rooms are encouraged. For group rates you must refer to the conference name. Group rates are available for dinner at the hotel.
IMPORTANT: Only about 20 spaces remain available. Please reserve your spot early as attendance is SEVERELY limited.
Cryonicists, potential cryonicists and supporters are encouraged to attend.
For more information and/or to RSVP, please email Lori Rhodes at Terasem -- lori@terasemcentral.org or Rudi Hoffman at Hoffman Planning -- rudi@rudihoffman.com
The Alcor Life Extension Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit scientific and research organization, currently has an immediate opening for a Technical Coordinator at our Scottsdale, Arizona, facility. The Technical Coordinator is responsible for maintaining and operating equipment necessary to perform cryopreservation of humans in the field of cryonics. Cryonics is the experimental practice of using ultra-cold temperatures to preserve human life in a state that may be recoverable by future medicine. For four decades Alcor has developed and implemented innovative techniques in the field of cryonics. These techniques involve a combination of experimental interventions and conventional medical skills.
At Alcor, we believe that intelligence, memories, and personality are determined primarily by the structure and chemistry of the human brain. Our aim is to preserve the brain and the unique identity within it so that advanced future medical technology might be able to restore the individual to good health. For more information about cryonics and Alcor please see our website at http://www.alcor.org.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Technical Coordinator will be responsible for the development, operation, and maintenance of equipment and infrastructure required to perform human cryopreservation and related research at Alcor's cryopreservation facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. Specialized and custom-built equipment used by Alcor includes:
* Cardiopulmonary and cryoprotectant perfusion systems.
* Temperature-controlled vapor circulation systems.
* Automated data acquisition and process control systems.
* Cryogenic dewars and liquid nitrogen handling systems.
* Chemical handling and mixing equipment.
The Technical Coordinator will work with Alcor’s Research Fellow, Equipment Fabricator, and external Research and Development Committee to maintain and improve existing procedures and equipment, and to design, construct, test, and validate new equipment and procedures. The Technical Coordinator will report to Alcor’s Executive Director.
The person we are looking for will be innovative, self-motivating, and creative with excellent communication skills. The Technical Coordinator must be able to rapidly learn essential aspects of a highly complex and challenging field, with limited supervision during the learning period. The Technical Coordinator must be comfortable functioning in a medical/surgical environment, and with handling of cryonics patients at ambient and cryogenic temperatures. Most of all, the individual must share our vision that cryonics patients require the same conscientious dedication to patient welfare as conventional medicine, even though cryonics procedures are still experimental.
This is an exciting opportunity to participate at the frontiers of current scientific knowledge in the hope that cryopreservation of human beings will enable future resuscitation by radically advanced medicine. You will be part of one of the most difficult and ambitious technological endeavors ever pursued.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Maintain, specify, procure or construct equipment as necessary for cryopreservation and long-term storage of cryonics patients.
2. Operate equipment used during cryonics cases, and eventually train others to do so.
3. Mix and package chemical solutions used during cryonics cases.
4. Identify and evaluate new engineering developments and gauge applicability to existing processes.
5. Maintain current working knowledge of perfusion engineering, data acquisition systems, and cryogenic engineering as applicable to Alcor's needs.
6. Participate with management, technical staff, and external advisors in planning short and long-term technology strategies.
7. Ensure compliance with all regulatory agencies, including but not limited to OSHA, EPA, DEA, USDA, DEQ and the local Fire Marshal.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
* Good communication skills.
* Degree in science or engineering.
* Basic electronics knowledge, basic knowledge of chemistry and workshop skills are essential.
* Prior interest and knowledge of cryonics is desirable.
* Knowledge of computer data acquisition and control systems is desirable.
* Knowledge of organ perfusion systems or cardiopulmonary bypass is desirable.
* Experience in biomedical research or engineering is a plus.
Alcor recognizes that the ideal skill set and background knowledge sought for this position may be impossible to find in a single individual, and will therefore be flexible in considering applicants who may lack some of the above qualifications.
Alcor offers a comprehensive benefits package. Employees must reside in the greater Phoenix area, or be willing to relocate to Phoenix (we may assist with relocation expenses). Qualified applicants should email their resume, salary requirements, and a cover letter describing their interest and attitude toward cryonics to Jennifer Chapman (jennifer@alcor.org).
The Alcor Life Extension Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit scientific and research organization, currently has an immediate opening for a Readiness Coordinator at our Scottsdale, Arizona, facility. The Readiness Coordinator is responsible for assisting with the stabilization and transport phases of cryonics, and for maintaining logistical readiness for cryonics cases. Cryonics is the experimental practice of using ultra-cold temperatures to preserve human life in a state that may be recoverable by future medicine. For four decades Alcor has developed and implemented innovative techniques in the field of cryonics. These techniques involve a combination of experimental interventions and conventional medical skills.
At Alcor, we believe that intelligence, memories, and personality are determined primarily by the structure and chemistry of the human brain. Our aim is to preserve the brain and the unique identity within it so that advanced future medical technology might be able to restore the individual to good health. For more information about cryonics and Alcor please see our website at http://www.alcor.org.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Readiness Coordinator will work with Alcor’s Transport Coordinator in arranging and performing standbys, postmortem stabilization, and transport of Alcor patients to Alcor's cryopreservation facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Readiness Coordinator will also be responsible for purchasing, inventorying, and otherwise maintaining supplies and equipment necessary for cryonics procedures at remote locations and at Alcor’s Scottsdale facility. Additionally the Readiness Coordinator will participate in training and outfitting of regional groups in the United States and other countries who assist with stabilization and transport of Alcor patients.
Specification of procedures and equipment are determined in consultation with Alcor’s technical staff, including Transport Coordinator, Technical Coordinator, Research Fellow, and external physicians, scientists, and consultants. Supplies and equipment include:
* Heart-lung resuscitators.
* Patient ice baths.
* Patient cooling systems.
* I.V. medications and administration supplies.
* Tubing packs and cardiopulmonary perfusion equipment.
* Sensors, data logging, and recording equipment.
* Personal protective equipment.
The Readiness Coordinator will report to Alcor’s Transport Coordinator, and perform the specific tasks below. All tasks except the first two are shared with the Transport Coordinator under the direction of the Transport Coordinator.
PREMORTEM RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Ensure supplies and equipment required for cryonics cases are maintained and ready for emergency deployment in Alcor’s Scottsdale facility and at remote locations.
2. Develop Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) documentation for tasks related to readiness.
3. Develop, document, and execute training programs for field cryonics procedures.
4. Communicate with and maintain awareness of the medical status of Alcor members at risk.
5. Establish contact with Alcor member's physician or medical facility upon terminal diagnosis.
6. Track and assess a member's condition without participating in treatment. Tracking may continue on an intermittent basis, in person or by phone.
7. Convey information about the member’s condition to Alcor’s Deployment Committee.
8. Organize and maintain a Standby, often in a remote location, in which cryonics transport technicians wait to perform postmortem stabilization procedures.
9. Establish contact with local funeral homes to assist in transport preparations.
10. Interact with patients, their family and local medical personnel to ensure the timely application of Alcor’s protocol after pronouncement of legal death.
POSTMORTEM RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Ensure the timely application of Alcor’s stabilization protocol, which includes surface cooling, medication administration, cardiopulmonary support, airway management, and blood replacement. If present at Alcor’s Scottsdale facility when the case begins, then ensure readiness of Alcor’s operating room to receive the patient.
2. Ensure the transport of the patient to Alcor’s facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. If at Alcor’s facility when the case begins, then assist in the operating room and oversee cleanup and reconstitution for the next case.
3. Assist with the timely preparation of detailed technical reports on the care provided to each patient, once each transport is concluded.
The Readiness Coordinator is to be on call on a 24-hour basis for emergencies. This position requires frequent out of town travel, approximately 10-15 times per year, including overnight and weekend work, for emergency deployments and scheduled training programs. Otherwise, normal business working hours are required.
The person we are looking for will be organized, self-motivating, and creative with good communication skills. The Readiness Coordinator must be able to learn essential aspects of a complex and challenging field, with limited supervision during the learning period. The Readiness Coordinator must be comfortable functioning in a medical/surgical environment. Most of all, the individual must share our vision that cryonics patients require the same conscientious dedication to patient welfare as conventional medicine, even though cryonics procedures are still experimental.
This is an exciting opportunity to participate at the frontiers of current scientific knowledge in the hope that cryopreservation of human beings will enable future resuscitation by radically advanced medicine. You will be part of one of the most difficult and ambitious technological endeavors ever pursued.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
* Paramedic, CCP, RN, NP, PA, or EMT-B.
* Equivalent experience in a health field will be considered.
* Experience in an emergency room or critical care setting is highly desirable.
* Experience in cryonics is desirable but not essential.
* Experience in tissue recovery is a plus.
* Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are required.
Alcor offers a comprehensive benefits package. Employees must reside in the greater Phoenix area, or be willing to relocate to Phoenix (we may assist with relocation expenses). Qualified applicants should email their resume, salary requirements, and a cover letter describing their interest and attitude toward cryonics to Jennifer Chapman (jennifer@alcor.org).
Templeton, CA -- January 25th, 2010
Alcor received emergency notification that the mother of one our members had tragically died as a result of a house fire.
Apparently, a space heater within the home had caused a small fire. While attempting to douse the fire, it spread out of control and she was unable to contain it. We believe she suffered a heart attack and collapsed as she exited the home. There was some burn trauma to the patient, however it was limited to the lower half of her body.
While her son is an Alcor member and her former husband has already been cryopreserved, she had not actively signed up for membership during her lifetime. Upon learning of the incident, the son wanted to provide his mother with one final gift, and immediately began to pursue signing her up through a third party membership. This requires Alcor Board approval and has to meet specific requirements before a vote is taken to grant the request. While this process takes some time to complete, it was handled on an emergency basis to prevent unnecessary delays. Another obstacle to overcome, due to the legal implications of her death, was the medical examiner is required to ensure that no foul play had been involved. The son persuaded the medical examiner to limit the scope of the autopsy to an external Commuted Tomography (CT) scan of the brain. This satisfied the legal requirements of the county while maintaining the structural integrity of the patient’s brain.
In anticipation of being granted authority to receive the patient, Alcor deployed Transport Coordinator Aaron Drake along with the equipment needed to prepare and transport her back to Alcor. Since that county's medical examiner completes his work at the various funeral homes, rather than at one central location, the patient was maintained at a temperature of 35 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the process, thus limiting the amount of ischemia that occurs in comparison to a normothermic environment. As there were no major airports near the rural community that could handle large cargo, the decision was made to drive the individual back to Alcor. Although the legal process was expedited, it became clear that enough time had elapsed that a straight freeze was the only option remaining, due to accumulating blood coagulation and loss of vascular integrity. Once final approval was given, the patient was packaged in dry ice and transported to Scottsdale, AZ.
Member A-2469 is now our 90th patient. A full case report will be issued.
The next Board meeting is scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2010, at the Alcor facility (7895 East Acoma Drive in Scottsdale, AZ) at 11:00 AM (MT). Members and the public are encouraged to attend.
The CEO Search Committee has selected seven applicants to interview. Out of the seven applicants contacted, six are available for interviews.
Team Training
The Southern California Regional Response Team received a two-day training session in December. The focus of this session was to provide hands-on training with the equipment in their new response kits. These new kits are streamlined and simplified versions of their predecessors and the feedback has been very positive. Highly technical procedures needing unrealistic amounts of training and experience for volunteers to become proficient have been replaced with more fundamental tools and processes that even the most timid volunteer would feel comfortable in performing. A big thanks to Peter Voss and Louise Gold for providing the training location and hosting the CryoFeast that was held in conjunction with the weekend.
Watch List
There are currently seven members on Alcor's "Orange Alert" watch list. This list is comprised of members who are diagnosed with a terminal condition; who are undergoing a non-elective surgical procedure; or whose health is severely compromised due to an underlying medical condition. Frequent communication with these members is essential.
This "partnership" in sharing medical information, between the member and Alcor, enables the Deployment Committee to better evaluate the seriousness of the condition and to determine the appropriate level of monitoring and/or action by Alcor.
Membership
Alcor had 913 members on its Emergency Responsibility List. Seven (7) memberships were approved during this month, no memberships were reinstated, one (1) membership was cancelled and one member was cryopreserved. Overall, there was a net gain of five (5) members this month.
Applicant
Alcor had 67 applicants for membership. Four (4) new applicants were added, seven (7) applicants were converted to members and one applicant was cancelled resulting in net loss of 4 applicants for this month.
Information Packets
Alcor received 220 information packets were requested this month, 14 were handed out during facility tours or from special request. The average total of 188 info packs sent per month in 2009 is compared to 173 in 2008.