MIDDLEBURY — Two families came together Saturday to celebrate the lives of their loved ones. One lost too soon, and another saved by organ donation.

It has been two years since Larry Hines underwent a liver and kidney transplant.

"The statement was made that I was only one breath away from death," said Hines.

After suffering in pain for several years, the transplant changed his life.

"I can't believe it. I feel like I'm 39 years old," said Hines.

On Saturday, Hines met the donor's family for the first time.
Dorothy Heskett decided to donate the organs of her youngest son, Jimmy, when he passed away.

"He always felt like he wasn't worth very much and he was worth a lot," said Heskett.

Jimmy's family describes him as someone always willing to lend a hand. So organ donation just made sense.

"Jimmy donated his organs, he actually has given the gift for their family to enjoy their father. They seem like a very close family as well," said Jimmy's oldest sister Donna Smith.

The two families shared stories, pictures, and tears. They came together to remember Jimmy's life and say thank you for a second chance at life for Larry.

"We thank them for coming here today to meet us and giving us chance to learn a little bit about their brother and son who lives on through my dad," said Hine's daughter in a group prayer.

"I'm representing their son, they have to feel grateful that at least their son is living," said Hines

One thousand people in Indiana are on a waiting list for donated organs. Nationwide that number is 80,000. The Indiana Organ Procurement Organization helped arrange the special meeting.