Grateful couple meets life-saving 911 dispatcher

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KTVU) - It’s not every day you get to thank the people who saved your life. This week, a Santa Clara man got to meet a 911 dispatcher who helped his wife perform CPR after he went into cardiac arrest.

Naomi Dale has worked as a public safety dispatcher for the City of Santa Clara for 25 years. She’s assisted with countless police, fire and medical calls. It was a frantic call back in August she'll never forget.

“I was part of the chain of survival,” said Dale. “I helped. His wife was the first part of that chain of survival. She made the call.”

Dale was the calming voice on the other end of the line when Jeannie Fitzgerald called 911 after Bill, her husband of 34 years, suddenly collapsed, lost unconsciousness and went into cardiac arrest.

“The thought of not having him here was unfathomable,” said Jeannie Fitzgerald. “I didn't want to go there.”

Fitzgerald didn't know CPR, so Dale walked her through basic instructions moments before Santa Clara Fire and paramedics arrived.

“Seconds mattered in that situation, I tell you, because he wasn't breathing,” said Jeannie Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald spent time in the hospital. This week, he was able to thank those who saved his life, including Dale.

“I have a connection now,” said Dale. “I know him. I met my patient. I met his wife and that means something to me,” said Dale.

“She means everything,” said Jeannie Fitzgerald. “She was there for us.”

Doctors don't know what caused the 65-year-old's cardiac arrest, especially since he's in great health. However, he knows now his heart is full of gratitude.

“Live everyday like it is your last,” said Bill Fitzgerald.

As for Dale, she's happy Fitzgerald has a little more time to spend with his wife.

“It’s what I do,” said Dale. “I like helping people. I like being a positive influence. I like the fact that too often police, fire and medical emergencies, the police department is seen in such a negative light. This is a good thing.”