Max Johnson, the young man whose personal battle for a heart transplant inspired a landmark change in UK organ donation law, has celebrated his 18th birthday with a powerful message of eternal gratitude.
A Milestone Birthday and a Lifelong Gift
Marking this significant personal milestone, Max spent the day with friends, enjoying a meal and, after proving his age to the manager, ordering his first legal pint. Yet, his thoughts were never far from the family of Keira Ball, the little girl whose heart now beats in his chest. The life-saving transplant took place at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital in August 2017, when Max was just nine years old.
"I will be forever grateful," said Max, reflecting on the gift he received. He thinks of Keira every Christmas, on his birthday, and on the anniversary of the operation that saved him. His mother, Emma Johnson, 54, from Winsford in Cheshire, stated that his birthdays are milestones the family never takes for granted, describing the day as one of "celebration, contemplation and gratitude."
The Campaign That Changed the Law
Max's story became national news after The Mirror's front page highlighted his agonising eight-month wait for a donor. The campaign, titled 'Change the Law for Life', caught the attention of then-Prime Minister Theresa May, who agreed to introduce new legislation.
This led to the passing of 'Max and Keira's Law' in May 2020, named at Max's own insistence to honour his donor. The law introduced an 'opt-out' system for organ donation in England, meaning adults are now considered potential donors unless they state otherwise. This pivotal change is predicted to save hundreds of lives every year.
A Legacy of Courage and Selflessness
The chain of life that saved Max began with an act of profound courage. Keira Ball died in a tragic car accident near her home in Barnstaple, Devon, in 2017. Her father, Joe Ball, made the selfless decision to donate her organs. Keira's heart saved Max, and her other organs went on to save three more lives.
Max's father, Paul Johnson, 51, called turning 18 "an almighty milestone" for his son. Max has now transitioned to adult services at the Freeman Hospital, having attended his final paediatric clinic just before Christmas. His journey, including the transplant itself, was historically documented in the BBC's 2018 documentary "A Chance to Live", which featured the first 'live transplant' ever broadcast on UK television.
Max recalls the surreal experience of watching the operation, stating, "It was so strange seeing my chest there without a heart in it. The part which was especially meaningful was when they put in Keira's heart." He added, "The Balls are amazing people... It must have been so hard for Joe to make that decision. And the new law happened thanks to the Mirror."
