Valentines Day seemed like a fitting day to bring together a recent cardiac arrest survivor, his family, fellow teammates and first responders. That is actually what James (Pat) Beiter did this past Tuesday night at the Skippack Emergency Medical Services building in Skippack. Beiter was playing basketball at a local church recreational building late in December 2016 when he went into sudden cardiac arrest. Quick action by Beiter's teammates, the 911 communications center, local fire and ems professionals, doctors and nurses resulted in a successful outcome that night. Beiter's strong will to survive and thoughts and prayers from family and friends aided in what is being called, a full recovery.

Beiter coordinated the event with SEMS and brought together almost all of the people on scene at the church that evening. In a heartfelt talk, Beiter thanked the many folks who helped bring him back to life, enabling him to see not only the new year, but his loving family and friends with him Tuesday night. He rattled of countless statistics of how he beat the odds with the passion and accuracy in facts and numbers of college professor. He spoke of his hopes to send the message about the importance of CPR education and AED placement in churches, business and other gathering spots.

Beiter benefited from the fact that CPR was started by his teammates and buddies that night. Nearly one in three victims survives when the arrest is witnessed by a bystander and the bystanders start CPR and introduce an AED if possible. Those recognized Tuesday night included:

Those men who assisted with CPR and directing in first responders:

John Haddle

Mike McLane

James Sonnan

Nick Deangelos

Rob Weldie

Skippack Emergency Medical Services, Lower Providence Ambulance and Skippack Fire Company.

Beiter and his family provided refreshments and drinks after the presentation of thanks and a few pictures. Although thanks and events like this are never expected, they are greatly appreciated by our first responders. Seeing the smiles and tears of happiness at the SEMS building that night drives home the reasons we do what we do. Thank you Mr. Beiter! Happy New Year, Happy Valentines Day and many more...