Update: Thanks to everyone who donated. It was a successful fundraiser for STARS, raising over a half million dollars.

Providing critical care anywhere is STARS mission, with the belief that no matter who you are or where you are, everyone should have access to emergency health care when they need it most.  STARS is a non-profit charitable organization funded through a combination of government funding, community fundraising, individual donations and corporate support, and that’s what this two-day ‘Critical Care on the Air Radiothon’ is all about.

The President and CEO of STARS, Dr. John Froh. says what he is most proud of is the impact STARS has. “Eleven people every day, we touch. Plus, the people that maybe we don’t transport but were involved in that virtual care or care advice, so what I am very proud of is the impact we have on both individuals, families and the communities in our three provinces. STARS has bases in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba.

The Radiothon is raising funds to support the advanced, extensive critical care training of STARS air medial crew, and their life-saving operations. Chief Clinical Officer, Cindy Seidl, notes that critical care nurses and paramedics have to have at least five year’s experience to be hired. “Once you are hired by STARS, you go through a comprehensive 20-week induction program and this includes training in-person, simulation, lectures and actually flying alongside the crew.”