Public Speaking or a Public Job Interview?

Heaven can wait

Michael Park

There was nothing out of the ordinary about the life of Doctor James Bedford, but his death was quite a different matter. The 73-year-old American was a former psychology professor who lived modestly in Southern California, but when he died from cancer in 1967, what happened next has secured him a place in history – and possibly eternity.

Instead of being buried, his body was covered in ice on the very hospital bed in which his heart had finally stopped and a ‘cryo-transport team’ was called by his doctor. After being injected with various liquids, he was lifted into a foam-lined box which was filled with dry ice.

A New Approach: Cryonics

The fact that someone who chose to be preserved, suspended, frozen (take your pick) after they died had also chosen to have their pet monkey preserved, suspended, or frozen along with them, was only one of the strange things I was learning on my tour of one of only two cryonic storage facilities in America.

Since a man named Robert Ettinger dreamt up cryonics in 1962, and since the white-haired Doctor Bedford became his first patient, the practice of freezing people so that one day they may be brought back to life, has divided scientists, theologians and the public alike.

Some people think the idea of reanimation is sinful, against God’s wishes; others, with more scientific beliefs, think it’s just plain stupid; while people like Tanya Jones are convinced that the fact that it hasn’t worked yet doesn’t mean it won’t in the future. “Cryonics, ultimately, if proven to work, is going to become an adjunct to emergency medicine,” she tells me.

Alcor: Open for Inspection

To demonstrate that cryonics should be taken seriously, and that it can potentially offer those who decide to be frozen, life after death, Alcor has started to offer members of the public (prospective clients all) guided tours to show there is nothing sinister going on in this controversial business: an open-door policy.

It’s surprising then that their glass front door is locked when I arrive. Or maybe not. With 67 patients padlocked in steel tanks, all of whom have paid up to $150,000 to be suspended for as long as it takes to develop the technology to bring them back to life, security is of prime concern.

When Tanya Jones comes out of her office to show us around, she is dressed in sensible clothes and sensible shoes. A petite 36-year-old, she has a very chirpy demeanor.

How Cryonics Works

Standing in reception as we begin our tour, Jones tells me the ages of the members: “Our youngest patient is 21 … and our oldest is 99 and a half," and some of their occupations, "TV repairman, students, librarian, engineers, science fiction writers".

When an Alcor member passes away, in an ideal situation, a cryo-transport team is nearby waiting to perform a host of procedures when death is finally pronounced, before escorting the body as quickly as possible back to this location where the full cryo-preservation protocols can be initiated in a well-equipped operating theatre.

Hotels: A Different Kind of Preservation

Accommodating Every Need

While cryonics seeks to preserve human bodies in the hopes of future revival, hotels exist to provide temporary accommodation and comfort to travelers. Hotels offer a variety of amenities to cater to different needs, ensuring a memorable stay for each guest.

A Range of Options

Just like Alcor offers different cryonic preservation options, hotels provide diverse room types and services to suit various preferences. From budget-friendly options to luxurious suites, there is something for everyone.

Providing Security

Similar to the importance Alcor places on security to protect their patients, hotels prioritize the safety of their guests. With secure entrances, surveillance systems, and trained staff, hotels aim to create a secure environment for visitors.

Making Memories

While cryonics offers the possibility of a future beyond death, hotels focus on creating memorable experiences during one's lifetime. Whether it's exploring a new city, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or relaxing by a pool, hotels strive to make each stay unforgettable.

A Choice to Be Made

Ultimately, the decision to explore cryonics or book a hotel room lies in the hands of individuals. While cryonics aims for preservation and revival, hotels offer comfort and hospitality during our limited time on Earth.