Every spring, the University of Alberta's Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry pauses to recognize an extraordinary act of generosity—one that extends far beyond a single lifetime.
On Saturday, hundreds of family members, students, and faculty crowded into a campus lecture hall to honour those who donated their bodies to the university's Anatomical Gifts Program. Among them was the family of Doreen Edna Buhler, a remarkable Edmontonian who passed away at age 96 last year and left behind a legacy that will shape medical education for years to come.
"The human body is a profound teacher," said Dr. David Williams, chair of the surgery department. "A remarkable gift."
Buhler's story captures the spirit of this annual tradition. Born on a farm outside Edmonton in 1928, she built an extraordinary life marked by resilience, faith, and dedication to her family. After her father's death, she left rural Calahoo and created a new life in the city, working alongside her husband Patrick at his family's diner on Jasper Avenue. Widowed at just 39 with 13 children to support, she worked tirelessly as a baker, pastry chef, and cook across Edmonton's kitchens—becoming locally famous for her handmade pies.
"She was incredible. She really was," said Brigid Burton, Buhler's daughter, at Saturday's service. "She had this entire other chapter."
That final chapter reflects Buhler's lifelong commitment to helping others. Long before her passing on April 29, 2024, she had told her children of her intention to donate her body to advance medical education. It was a fitting end to a life spent giving to her community.
Each year, 50 to 80 individuals across Alberta choose to make this same generous decision. Their contributions fuel education across multiple health disciplines at the University of Alberta—including medicine, dentistry, kinesiology, physical therapy, and physical education. Hundreds of students benefit from these donations annually, gaining hands-on knowledge that cannot be replicated in any classroom.
At Saturday's ceremony, donor names were read aloud with solemn respect. Families received fresh-cut yellow roses as a token of gratitude and remembrance. Dr. Williams emphasized that families deserve recognition not only for honouring their loved ones' wishes but for understanding the profound impact these gifts have on future healthcare providers.
For the Buhler family—Brigid, her brother Anthony, and their siblings—the memorial service provided closure and affirmation that their mother's final wishes have created something lasting and meaningful.
This story is based on reporting from CBC News. Read the full original article on CBC's Edmonton bureau.