Mom hears late son's heartbeat in organ recipient on Mother's Day

It was a touching embrace on Mother’s Day that two strangers have waited three years for. Anna Hutt finally met the man who now has her son's heart beating inside of him.

"He had a zest for life. He lived life to the fullest. He was sometimes pretty ornery,” said Hutt.

Hutt's son, Payton, died in a dirt biking accident in Iowa in 2014. It's that timing that saved Gary Flint's life.

"I was here. They didn't think they would find a heart in time for me, and then,” Flint said.

Dr. Ronald Zolty, a cardiologist with Nebraska Medicine, said Flint was suffering from a heart condition that meant his days were numbered.

"I would say without a heart transplant, he wouldn't have lived another two, three months,” Dr. Zolty told WOWT 6 News.

Those three months, turned into three years and counting thanks to the donation of a stranger. A teddy bear with a recording of that heartbeat now serves as a reminder of its new life.

It was a match made in heaven, according to Flint. From what he’s heard of Payton’s life, the two shared a lot in common.

"When she talks about loving cars, motorcycles, music, a prankster, I mean it couldn't have been picked any better,” Flint said.

Payton, at just 16-year-old, knew he wanted to give the gift of life. It’s an age when many might think of themselves first.

"He just had a big heart, and he would do anything for anyone,” said Hutt.

Hutt says her son knew he wanted to be a donor, even if she wasn’t so sure about it. The two actually had a disagreement over the decision when he got his learner’s permit. Hutt ended up letting him -- and is glad she did.

Hutt and Flint said they’re hoping to stay in touch for many years to come.

Nationally, it’s estimated that 18 people die every day while waiting for organ transplants.

A single donor can save up to eight lives and also improve the lives of up to 50 people through eye and tissue donation.

To register as an organ donor, visit

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