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'It's So Strong': Louisiana Woman Hears Heart of Late Son Beating in 14-Year-Old Donor Recipient's Chest

Tears were shed in Metairie, Louisiana, on May 14 as a woman heard the heart of her late son beating in the chest of the 14-year-old boy who received it.

Footage recorded by Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency shows Maria Peters Clark, whose 25-year-old son, Nicholas, was killed in a car accident in September 2020, meeting Jean Paul Marceaux and his family for the first time.

Clark embraces Marceaux, calling him “handsome” before placing a stethoscope on his chest and exclaiming, “Oh my gosh, it’s so strong” upon hearing his heartbeat.

Jean Paul’s mother, Candace Chauvin-Armstrong, posted about the reunion on Facebook, writing: “Today was one of the most beautiful days of my life!!!!!”

The September 2020 transplant was Marceaux’s second. He developed cardiomyopathy after contracting a virus as an infant. He underwent his first heart transplant at age 2, but about a decade later, that heart began to fail, according to Chauvin-Armstrong. Credit: LOPA | @lopamakinglifehappen via Storyful

Video transcript

MARIA PETERS CLARK: Oh my God. How you doing, baby? Oh my God. I've been waiting for this for so long. How you doing? OK?

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

You are so handsome. How are you doing, Floyd?

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

MARIA PETERS CLARK: He is so handsome. Oh my God.

- We got something for you too.

MARIA PETERS CLARK: A bunch of goodies here. I'm like finding everything.

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

MARIA PETERS CLARK: Oh my gosh, it's so strong. Just to know that it's in him. Baby. I love you. I'm just so glad that you're doing so well. Just be strong. I am so happy. We are family.

- We are, forever.

MARIA PETERS CLARK: So whenever you need me, just call me. I love you. Floyd. Thank you so much. I love y'all. So handsome.

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

- This is Jean Paul. Give him a hug.

- Aww.

- Isn't he precious?