A routine call for a firefighter in the Valley turned into something more and something personal.
Derek Dee, a firefighter and paramedic with the Phoenix Fire Department was dispatched to a home for a call on Sept. 10.
On his way there, Dee realized he was on the way to his parent's home. Upon arrive, Dee and another member of the engine 20 crew started advanced life support, officials said.
"I'm looking like, 'no, that can't be right; not a code,'" Derek said. "That's the worst call I could get to that address."
Derek's 71-year-old father, Tommy Dee, was shocked three time, was revived and then went into cardiac surgery once at the hospital.
Tommy said, "My wife...she came into the office where I was watching TV and noticed I was gasping and took my last breath. In the hospital they said you're one of the few that survived this type of event."
It was a routine call for a common emergency. But it's the time crunch that makes the difference in saving a life.
"When you see your dad lying on the ground and his face is blue and he's not breathing it's pretty tough," Derek said.
Dee's father is now back home, with a pacemaker and a story that warms the heart.
