More than $425,000 was raised by five community and business leaders at the first annual Rescue on the Prairie fundraising event for STARS air ambulance, held at a remote location near Dundurn, SK, on Wednesday.

“It’s a pleasure to be here and be able to raise these funds for STARS,” said participant Ron Carson, founder of Carson Energy Services. “We’ve done well, thanks to all the people out there who have been contributing.”

All participants were airlifted by STARS to the remote prairie location where they competed against each other to raise the most funds in one day using their mobile phones and personal networks.

Each was presented with a series of challenges, including a simulated medical scenario involving an intubation on a mannequin, orienteering, and a test of their compliance with helicopter safety.

Those involved this year included:

• Mike McCullough – Investors Group, former Saskatchewan Roughrider
• Bev Dubois – businesswoman, Saskatoon Media Group
• David Dube – businessman/philanthropist, Concorde Group Corp.
• Dean Lang – Gibson International Carriers Inc., Hardline Transport Solutions Inc., The Wrench Ranch Inc.
• Ron Carson – Carson Energy Services Ltd.

“The inaugural Rescue on the Prairie event has surpassed our expectations,” said STARS executive director, Foundation, Rod Gantefoer. “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the participants and the community. Funds raised from this event will help us to continue providing care and transport for critically ill and injured patients in Saskatchewan.”

In Saskatchewan, STARS needs to raise 50 per cent of its operating funds, about $10 million for the Regina and Saskatoon bases. This is done through fundraising and community support. Moving forward, the organization hopes this event will become its single largest, one-day fundraiser.

STARS had a backup helicopter brought in for the event, while the active on-duty aircraft remained mission ready at the Saskatoon base.

Background

STARS is a non-profit helicopter air ambulance organization that provides rapid and specialized emergency care and transportation for critically ill and injured patients. Our doctors, nurses, paramedics, and pilots work with a team of dedicated support staff and community partners to save lives. STARS has flown more than 30,000 missions, including more than 2,200 in Saskatchewan. We operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week from bases in Regina, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, and Winnipeg.