CPR advocates honored for spreading the lifesaving word

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"A heartwarming and lifesaving reunion to tell you about. A local teenager and her former middle school principal were recently honored for their efforts to promote CPR awareness.

Two years ago, Heather Freligh was just 13 years old when she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while sitting in class at Art Freiler Elementary School in Tracy. Her principal, Stephen Theall, rushed to her aid and immediately began administering CPR, keeping her alive until paramedics arrived.

The two were recently reunited and honored at a national summit by the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation. Principal Theall received the 'People Saving People Award' for his heroic actions, while Heather was recognized for her ongoing advocacy work. Since her recovery, she has made it her mission to spread the word about the importance of knowing CPR and having AEDs in schools."

[VIDEO SEGMENT / VOICE-OVER] "It was a normal day in the classroom when suddenly, everything changed. Heather Freligh slumped over her desk and collapsed. Her friends quickly called 911, and Principal Stephen Theall didn't hesitate."

[STEPHEN THEALL - PRINCIPAL] "It was pretty clear right away that we had a very serious situation on our hands. In a lot of ways, the students here are like my own children. You just step in and do what you've been trained to do."

[VOICE-OVER] "Principal Theall had recently completed CPR training, a skill that proved to be the difference between life and death. He performed chest compressions until first responders arrived, who had to shock Heather's heart multiple times to restore a rhythm before airlifting her to the hospital."

[HEATHER FRELIGH - SURVIVOR & ADVOCATE] "I am just so deeply grateful to Principal Theall. His prompt CPR is the reason I am standing here today, able to share my story."

[VOICE-OVER] "Now, Heather is channeling her second chance at life into purpose. She has traveled to the state capitol and Washington D.C., speaking to lawmakers and organizations about the critical need for cardiac emergency plans, accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and hands-only CPR training in all schools."

[HEATHER FRELIGH] "I want to make sure other kids have the same chance that I did if they ever experience a sudden cardiac arrest."

[ANCHOR OUTRO] "An inspiring young lady turning a terrifying moment into a mission to save lives. Experts remind us that bystander intervention and immediate CPR can double or triple a person's chance of surviving a cardiac arrest."