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NORWAY -- It's been two years since the Hiltunen family lost their autistic 14-year old son Niles to complications of a seizure disorder.

But Saturday at the 3rd Niles Hiltunen Benefit in Norway, his 'heart' was still with them through one of many people who say he's a hero, even after life.  He passed away May 27, 2009, but his life didn't end there.  He was an organ donor, impacting more than 50 donor recipients, including Teri Herko of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who received his heart.

The family says it was a difficult decision in their 'darkest hour" but quickly proved to be the right one.

"It seems very fitting that she has my son's heart," says Niles' mother Grace Michaud.  "Meeting Terri has been bittersweet.  I wish that heart was still in my son, but it wouldn't be anyway."

For 15 years, Herko suffered from cardiomyopathy, a condition that both weakens and enlarges your heart muscle.  Now she calls herself "the holder of Niles' heart" and does everything she can to stay healthy.

"It hasn't all been happy.  I think Grace was helped me," says Herko.  "It's sad to know she lost something and I gained something."

But a part of Niles still lives with her, even through his favorite food--peanut butter.  Herko now has a craving for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every week.

The song "She's Got My Heart" by Motongator Joe has become "their song."  The artist made an appearance at the benefit Saturday to play it to an audience.  The song is about an organ donor.

"I"m not really much of a great song writer, at least I don't think I am," says Motongator Joe.  "I usually agonize on songs, but this one was written in twelve minutes; it's almost like someone else wrote it."

Saturday, they all came together for the 3rd Annual Niles Hiltunen benefit.  They're raising money for other families with special needs children through the things Niles liked best--music, fun and family.  Proceeds go to the Niles Hiltunen Memorial Family Support Fund.  They hope to raise $7,000.

Niles' mother Grace is hoping their story will bring forward more of Niles' donor recipients; the family would like to get to know them as well.

Donations can be made to the Niles Hiltunen Memorial Family Support Fund account at the First National Bank & Trust Co. of Iron Mountain-Kingsford.  Their phone number is (906) 774-2200.