LA VALE, Md. — Even in death, Michael Palmer continues to be a hero.
Michael Palmer, a young volunteer firefighter from Pennsylvania, died in 2018 at the age of 32. He was an organ donor and through his generous act, he was able to save the lives of people, including Marion Bennett.
Bennett was born with a congenital heart defect and after enduring heart failure several times was placed on the transplant waiting list.
"Over many years, my heart just got weaker and weaker, so the only way I was going to survive is to have a heart transplant," said Bennett.
Bennett received her life-saving transplant in March 2018 from Michael.
On Wednesday, Bennett and her husband Ray made the trip to Baltimore to meet with Michael's family, including his mother, sister, grandmother, niece and nephew.
The two families bonded instantly, sharing stories and pictures of Michael.
Bennett even gave Michael's mother, Lisa a very special gift: a teddy bear with a recording of Michaels heartbeat.
"He's always living on in other people, so even though he's not physically here, he's still here," Lisa said.
To become an organ donor, you can register online here.
