“My Heart Your Heart” is an innovative project established by Kim A. Eagle, an Albion Walter Hewlett professor of internal medicine and the director of the Samuel and Jean Frankel Cardiovascular Center at the University of Michigan. The program enables funeral homes and crematories to make a meaningful difference by donating explanted pacemakers. These devices, which otherwise would be discarded prior to cremation, can be safely tested, sterilized and given a second life for patients in need.

Funeral homes interested in participating complete a simple online form to receive complimentary fulfillment kits with prepaid shipping labels. Each donated device undergoes rigorous testing and sterilization in accordance with the strictest medical standards. Then, it is shipped abroad for reimplantation in patients in countries participating in “My Heart Your Heart.”

“This initiative truly embodies what your profession stands for – compassion and community,” says Eagle. “Funeral directors have become vital partners in saving lives around the world. Their support ensures that no pacemaker capable of giving someone another heartbeat goes to waste.”

The “My Heart Your Heart” program not only saves lives but also prevents potentially hazardous materials from entering the waste stream. The program supports environmental sustainability by reducing waste, conserving metals such as titanium, and preventing hazardous materials from entering the environment.

To learn more or request a collection kit, please email mcorrpmhyh@med.umich.edu.