Cryonics Institute: A Brief History and Overview
By Robert C.W. Ettinger

"The cryonics movement began in 1962 with the private publication of the first version of my first book, "The Prospect of Immortality." It gained more attention when Doubleday published the first of several successful commercial editions, including several in foreign languages; and with the publication of my next book, "Man Into Superman."

"Organizations sprang up immediately. The Immortalist Society (originally the Cryonics Society of Michigan, and later the Cryonics Association) was formed in 1967 to promote cryonics, and since 1970 has published a magazine, now titled LONG LIFE: Longevity through Technology (formerly THE IMMORTALIST and before that THE OUTLOOK).

Then in 1976 a separate organization was formed: the Cryonics Institute, to offer cryostasis services: careful preparation, cooling, and long term patient care in liquid nitrogen.

"Our goal was maximum reliability and affordability. And we achieved it. The Cryonics Institute offers clear-cut advantages over all other providers. Such as--

The Most Affordable Prices Available Anywhere

"Our prices are lower than any other organization -- in fact, the most affordable prices anywhere in the world. Our  minimum whole-body suspension fee is $28,000.  (For members at a distance, transportation costs and local help will be additional.)  Our $28,000 fee is a one-time only payment, with no subsequent charges.  It's easily funded by insurance or other means, and funds the best care available for our member patients. (For last-minute cases, where the patient was not signed up beforehand, we ordinarily charge $35,000 rather than $28,000, if arrangements can be worked out at all.)

"Does that lower fee mean lower quality patient care or services?  No. The major part of other organizations' fees are earmarked for investment provisions totally unrelated to patient care and preparation. Methods and research differ, but overall we believe our procedures and policies give a better chance for patient survival than any other organization's -- and this web site will show you the detailed reasons why.

"See for yourself. Read our FAQ and see a special section -- clear and easy to read -- called Comparing Procedures And Policies. It explains where your money goes, and why it goes to giving you and those you love the best possible chance for future survival. Remember: most CI members can afford the higher prices of other organizations for themselves and their families -- and often do give more, in bequests and donations. But we've chosen CI -- because we know it's our best bet. And yours.

Stability, Safety, And Security

"We have a unique, proven track record of financial security and stability. Price stability too. CI is the only organization with no debt, no stockholders, and no landlords. We own our patient care facilities outright, and all our officers and directors donate their services voluntarily. We're one of the oldest cryonics organizations in existence -- and the only such organization that has never raised its prices, even in high-inflation times like the late 70s and early 80s. Adjusting for inflation, our prices have actually steadily declined, and we expect this to continue.

"Financially, we are the soundest cryonics organization in existence.

Rapid On-The-Spot Care

"We have a uniquely flexible and rapid system of emergency patient care based on universally available networks of mortuary assistance (and often medical assistance). This means that in the critical early stages, we can bring qualified professionals to you faster than any other system -- to you, and to travelers, vacationers, and members throughout most of the world. In particular, London-based F.A. Albin & Sons funeral directors are trained, practiced, equipped, and prepared to fly a team anywhere in Europe on short notice to help European CI members or tourists and business travellers.

Your Best And Most Comprehensive Free Informational Resource

"And lastly, we offer you a continually updated information center -- this web page. The site you're reading will lead you to everything you need to know about the subject of cryonics, and more. It offers you free information, free books, the latest news, hundreds of links to thousands of sources covering health, science, cutting-edge medicine, nanotechnology, financial help and resources, and supportive people and organizations. And if that's not enough? We personally will answer any question you might have about cryonics or the Cryonics Institute directly by email, or direct you to someone who can. In the world of cryonics, this is the source to visit, and the place to be.

"So come in. Talk to us, and learn about us. And about the world of cryonics--the only hope for the elderly or terminally ill, or for those who die suddenly.  Cryonics -- the only alternative to the despair of death and disease.  A new technology of life potentially without limits.

"But please -- don't wait too long. That can be fatal, and often has been. Read our web page, send us email, call us, write us, visit our facility -- tell us what we can do for you to help make your decision an informed one.  We'll be happy to help. But act now. It could save a life -- just maybe your own. Make a commitment, if you value your life and the lives of the people you love.

"Remember. You need us, and we need you. Help us to share and build the long tomorrow."