Emma Johnson said she was filled with emotion when she heard that tragic Keira Ball's heart still beats inside Max's.
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Lawmakers agree to amend organ donation law Saves hundreds of lives each year
Max Johnson's mother Emma was overcome with emotion as she left the chamber during a moving tribute to Keira Ball, who saved her son's life by donating her heart.
Keira's father, Joe, made the brave decision to donate his organs after her mother, Loana, fell into a coma and Keira died in a car accident.
Emma said: “It was so emotional. When I heard Keira's name I rose from my seat in the chamber and listened from behind the door as tears started to flow.”
“I know that her heart is now beating inside Max and that she saved my son.
“That's what this law change is about. I was so grateful to Keira's family. It felt so right that she was remembered and honoured in this way.”
“It was really moving to hear all the MPs' personal stories about organ donation. It really brought home to me how organ donation impacts so many different segments of society.”
“It was just an incredible feeling to be in the chamber and hear them say, 'Max's Law.' I just thought, 'This is my son. Well done, boy.'
The market researcher added: “I remember how brave he was when he asked if he wanted to be part of the Mirror Campaign and how he felt it might help other people in the same situation as him. I felt proud and I know the Mirror Campaign helped him.”
Keira's mother Loana, 33, said: “We have given our MP Peter Heaton-Jones permission to tell Parliament what happened to us.
“We wanted to tell everyone the stories of our donors and let it empower people for the future.”
Speaking from her home, she added: “It has been such a comfort to us to see Max's recovery and how well he is doing. Keira now feels like she is part of organ donation history, which is wonderful.”
“It makes us feel like we've done something to help others. We strongly believe in organ donation because it helps save lives.”
Emma said Keira's family telling their story to the Mirror at a crucial time may have “pushed the campaign across the finish line”.
“This is a wonderful legacy for Keira,” she added.
“I would also like to thank the Mirror team for their dedication and tenacity – this is an example of journalism at its finest.”
