But Jennifer insisted on leaving a seat open for her late son Rowley, who had died tragically on his 18th birthday. John and Jennifer carefully planned their wedding. John agreed with her choice and said, “That’s a great idea.” Rowley should be with us in spirit.
Jennifer looked at Rowley’s seat as she walked down the aisle on the day of the wedding. Later, during the reception, she saw a stranger sitting in the seat and yelled at him. She said, “That seat is set aside for my son.”
Paul the man said sorry, but it was clear he was nervous. John spoke up and said, “Paul has a reason for being here,” before he could finish. Then Paul told them that Rowley had given him a heart many years ago when he needed one.
Jennifer couldn’t believe it and asked, “So you’re still alive because of Rowley?” Paul said, “Yes, and I will always be grateful to him,” with tears in his eyes.
Jennifer broke down in tears as she hugged Paul and realized that her son’s legacy lived on in ways she could never have imagined. The seat that was supposed to be a quiet tribute became very important because Rowley’s presence was felt in a new and very important way.