Four local community business leaders recently braved the elements to raise an astonishing $350,000 (and counting) in support of STARS’ operations in Manitoba.
For this year’s Rescue on the River, four participants from across different sectors were airlifted to a remote location outside of Winnipeg with the goal of raising $50,000 each in order to be “rescued” and earn their flight back home. Each competitor took on a series of challenges throughout the day and made phone calls to friends, family, colleagues, neighbours and beyond to help reach their fundraising goal. Donations will continue to be collected and added to the final total throughout the week.
“These four courageous Rescue on the River participants took on a massive undertaking to raise funds for STARS, and we are so immensely grateful for their willingness to jump in and accept the challenge,” said Katherine Emberly, president and CEO, STARS. “It truly takes a community to save a life, and we would not be able to continue delivering on our mission to provide critical care, anywhere without the incredible support of both our government partners and our generous community allies.”
This year’s participants included Leta Larush, vice president, business management, BASF Canada; Peggy Talbot, K&P Talbot Community Fund; Jesse Hamonic, vice president and country head, Canada, Nutrien Ag Solutions; Martin White, general sales manager, Enns Brothers. Each participant was paired with a STARS air medical crew member who supported them throughout the day.
“It was absolutely eye-opening to see just a small part of how the STARS team does their work,” said Peggy Talbot, K&P Talbot Community Fund. “Their competence is so reassuring, especially thinking of family members and friends who could need STARS one day. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to raise greater awareness for STARS and contribute to such a dynamic cause.”
From the readiness challenge to see who could suit up and get buckled into the helicopter the fastest, to the boat rescue simulation medical challenge, each task gave participants an inside look into the various components and complexities that make up a STARS mission. The winner of each challenge received a sponsored cash donation to go towards their fundraising goal or an advantage in subsequent challenges.
Rescue on the River is the second of three Rescue events held by STARS this month. Rescue on the Prairie in Saskatchewan took place early Sept., and Alberta’s Rescue in the Rockies will be held on Sept. 24.
For more information about STARS rescue events and how to get involved please visit STARS.ca.
