Last November, Bethlehem Attorney Richard Schaedler collapsed outside a Northampton County courtroom while waiting to present a motion. His doctor later called it sudden, cardiac death SCD), the leading cause of natural death in the United States. His heart stopped, and remained stopped, for seven minutes.

He was clinically dead.

But thanks to the training and dedication of 10 deputy sheriffs who would not give up, a faint heartbeat eventually returned. Sill unconscious, Schaedler was rushed to Easton Hospital. But after weeks in a coma, he's made a full recovery and has returned to his law offices on Lehigh Street. He also made a special trip to the courthouse.

At County Council's April 3 meeting, Schaedler personally thanked each deputy. They were rewarded with a standing ovation, something council has never done before for anyone. Each deputy also received a letter of commendation.

They were able to save Attorney Schaedler's life because they had the training and the right equipment. They belong to one of only two accredited sheriff departments in the state, are required to attend 19 weeks of academy training, and are also trained in emergency care. This includes CPR, first aid, oxygen administration and the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).

Certification is a process started years ago by Sheriff Jeff Hawbecker. It was carried to fruition by Sheriff Randy Miller in 2011 and has been continued by Acting Sheriff Chris Zieger, who told council he was happy to be there, not to ask for money, but to honor his deputies.

Schaedler, a prominent real estate expert, is a Hellertown resident and former Saucon Valley School Board member. He is known best for his love of hockey and the Mets. He has practiced law since 1978.

Executive John Brown told council, "I think it's important to acknowledge that, in the county, we have a great workforce."