STARS is presenting Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel with a Red Ring for Life (RRFL) in City Council Chambers at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2011, in recognition of the City of Edmonton’s life-saving work with STARS. STARS representatives will be available for interviews following the presentation.

The presentation recognizes the City’s support, through its services provided on behalf of Edmontonians, which assist in STARS’ ability to serve the community. Since STARS began operating with a base in Edmonton in 1991, the City’s Protective Services, and individual emergency responders, have contributed to numerous life saving missions.

Many missions have involved Edmontonians as both patients and emergency service providers. Thanks to the City’s cooperation, Edmontonians can continue relying on STARS, while traveling on our highways, working outside the city, and when needed within the city limits.

The goal of the RRFL fundraising program is to engage donors, patients and members of the public, including the City of Edmonton, in STARS life-saving mission. The rings are a symbol of survival, courage, recovery, and the many hands involved in the chain of survival.

Background

• A Red Ring for Life public service announcement video is on the STARS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/starsairambulance, and the Red Ring for Life website at www.redringforlife.ca. The website features information about the program, a sign-up area and a printable ring sizer. The rings can be purchased with a minimum commitment of $5 per month, or a minimum donation of $60.
• STARS is a charitable non-profit organization and well recognized leader in critical patient care, rapid transportation, and emergency medical training and education.
• STARS unique model of community, corporate and government support allows us to continue innovating excellence in patient care.
• More than 20,000 missions have been flown by STARS since 1985, including 1,453 in 2010.
• Research shows that one in 10 Albertans know someone flown by STARS or have been flown by STARS. The Red Ring for Life program builds on that connectivity by providing individuals a unique opportunity to share their story.
• The rings are a symbol of survival, courage and recovery. The rings are also meant to symbolize the many hands involved in a life saving mission, a sense