Surviving cardiac arrest, a coma, organ failures, man gets to meet heroes who saved him in Virginia Beach

After a traumatic life-threatening event resulted in a man beating the odds, he now gets to thank those that helped.

On Oct. 21, 2023, David Preuss suffered a cardiac arrest while at home. His wife called 911 and, under the direction of Emergency Communications Center staff, performed CPR. Virginia Beach EMS, fire crews and police arrived within six minutes.

They performed advanced life support, including defibrillations, airway management and IV medications.

After 31 minutes of resuscitation efforts, Preuss regained a pulse. Despite being placed in a coma and suffering multiple organ failures, he is recovering.

On Thursday, Preuss will get the chance to meet the crews that gave him a second chance at life.