Dr. James Hiram Bedford was a multifaceted individual, serving as a professor at the University of California and a World War I veteran who led a rich and adventurous life. However, he is most notably recognized as the first person to undergo cryonic preservation, a process that involves freezing a human body (or brain) at extremely low temperatures post-mortem.
In 1967, Bedford, who had accumulated considerable wealth, received a diagnosis of kidney cancer that had spread to his lungs, during an era when medical advancements were not as sophisticated as they are today. Prior to his diagnosis, Bedford had already been introduced to the idea of cryonic preservation through Dr. Robert Ettinger’s book, “The Prospect of Immortality.” Dr. Ettinger, regarded as the pioneer of cryonics, established the Cryonics Institute, which offers services for freezing bodies after death with the hope of future revival when medical technology can address the ailments that led to death.
After learning about this innovative process, Bedford expressed his wish to have his body preserved through freezing following his demise.
On January 12, 1967, he was administered dimethyl sulfoxide to safeguard his internal organs after his blood was completely drained. Subsequently, Bedford was placed in a tank filled with liquid nitrogen at a temperature of minus 196 degrees Celsius.
Twenty-four years later, Alcor, an organization specializing in cryonic preservation, examined Bedford’s body to assess its condition. The evaluation revealed that his body had been well-preserved; his facial features appeared younger than his 73 years, and his nose and mouth bore a metallic scent reminiscent of blood. However, some areas of skin on his chest and neck showed discoloration, and his corneas had taken on a chalky white appearance akin to ice.
The technicians then wrapped Bedford in a new sleeping bag and returned his body to liquid nitrogen for continued preservation.
Now, more than 50 years since the anticipated time for Bedford to awaken, he remains in a state of suspended animation, often referred to as a “mummy.”
Robert Nelson, one of the three scientists involved in the cryonic preservation, stated that Bredford’s final words were: “I want you to know that I did not undertake this with the expectation of being revived. My intention was to ensure that my descendants might one day benefit from this remarkable scientific advancement.”