That's how Roanoke Rapids Fire Chief Stacy Coggins describes Fire Marshal Scotty Jean, who returned home Saturday from WakeMed after suffering what is best described as an electro-cardiac event the Sunday before.

“It's something that normally happens to older, elderly people. Statistics say only one percent survive this,” Coggins said today. “He's blessed.”

On September 7 the Roanoke Rapids Fireman's Club will host a chicken plate sale and home run derby to defray some of the expenses that insurance will not recoup.

(For more information see flyer attached at the end of this story)

A 24-year veteran of the fire department, Jean's attack deeply affected members of the fire department. “Me, personally, it made me take a strong look at priorities in our lives,” Coggins said. “It brought us closer together. We get pulled in so many directions we lose focus of what's important. We pulled together as a department.”

From local emergency responders and emergency staff at Halifax Regional Medical Center to the staff at WakeMed, everyone acted with professionalism, Coggins said. That professionalism, he said, brought about a good ending.

Jean is expected to return to work, Coggins said, but there is no definite timeline.

Jean, in his role as fire marshal, is visible to the public, especially businesses, reviewing site plans, doing fire inspections and working closely with the city's planning and development department.

Deputy Chief Mike Clements is doing Jean's work as he recovers. “It's some big shoes to fill. Scotty did his job and didn't burden others and did a very good job.”

The September 7 fundraiser will be held at Chockoyette Park beginning at noon. Tickets for the plate sale are being sold at the fire station on Roanoke Avenue as well Fire Station 2 on Highway 125. Both Weldon fire stations 1 and 2 are selling tickets. They can also be purchased at Discount Tire, Steve's Tire and Auto, All-in-One, B and J's Cash and Carry and Special Moments Tuxedo and Bridal.

Michael Butts and Joe Shaw are cooking.

The idea for the home run derby was firefighter Jayme Shelburne's, Coggins said. “He took the ball and ran with it.”

Cost of the home run derby is $10 for 10 swings for both men and women.

For Coggins, seeing Jean come home Saturday was inspiring. “He's a miracle. It was the best site I've ever seen. When he flew out that morning (after the attack) it was just a somber moment.”