WHAT’S NEW, WHAT’S NEXT, WHAT’S UP AT STARS SPRING 2013 Faster, further and more spacious AgustaWestland helicopter joins the STARS fleet The AgustaWestland 139 is poised to take flight in Alberta. The much-anticipated addition of STARS’ newest helicopter was made official in mid-December when it was unveiled at the STARS base in Edmonton. The roughly 200 guests, including donors, crew and staff, were thrilled to see the gleaming red air ambulance in person. Its purchase was made possible thanks to the generosity of more than 1,300 donors who raised the $26.5 million needed to buy two AW139s for STARS. IN THIS ISSUE: Anatomy of the AW139 GALA makes history “When you look up into the sky and see that big red helicopter, know that you put it there,” Fran Olson, of the vision critical campaign – a onetime fundraising initiative – told donors. “That’s your helicopter, your baby.” Founder Dr. Greg Powell earns international recognition Although it was delayed by the regulatory process, then by the availability of the de-iced version of the helicopter before being grounded in New Jersey as a hurricane barreled down, the AW139 found its way home. stars.ca Andrea Robertson, STARS president and CEO, said the organization never lost sight of the goal. “The journey here has not been a straight line,” said Robertson. “There were delays along the way – the last of which was caused by Hurricane Sandy. Through it all, we never lost our determination and drive to bring this state-of-the art helicopter home to Alberta. The chance to save more lives was the inspiration we needed to keep moving forward.” Robertson also thanked supporters. “The real heroes today are the many donors who made this accomplishment possible. Without them, the AW139 would still be on our wish list. Today, it’s in our hangar.” The AW139 medically equipped helicopters will enhance access to emergency pre-hospital critical care through more rapid response, an expanded service area, a larger medical interior, more powerful lift capacity, and a de-icing system that will enable flight during adverse weather conditions. The helicopter is the first of two new AW139 helicopters purchased by STARS for service in Alberta, with the second arriving later this year. Minister of Health Fred Horne called the AW139 the future of health care and emphasized the impact STARS has on patient care. “This new helicopter will ensure that patients, even those far away from a critical care centre, will still receive the intensive medical care they need.” CEO MESSAGE TRAINING STARS pilot Grant Wudel sits in the cockpit of the AW139 at the Edmonton launch event for the helicopter on Dec. 14, 2012. The cockpit of the AW139 features five large digital displays that present a multitude of information to the flight crew. The helicopter is also equipped with a sophisticated autopilot that is so precise, it can hover the aircraft in one spot without any involvement of the pilots. We wouldn’t be here without you Andrea Robertson SPRING 2013 PLEASE Direct comments, inquiries and letters to: STARS Communications 1441 Aviation Park N.E. Box 570, Calgary, Alberta T2E 8M7 403.295.1811 newsletter@stars.ca stars.ca For change of address: please call 403.295.1811 or email donations@stars.ca Please visit STARS.CA for more information about STARS and our activities. For your convenience, online donations to STARS can also be made through our website. Thank you for your interest and support! STARS, STARS and Design (logo), STARS Emergency Link Centre, STARBEAR, STAR1, STAR-2, STAR-3, STAR-4, STAR-5, STARS & SPURS, STARS & SPURS GALA, STARS & SPURS GALA and Design, The STARS Centre, Red Ring for Life, Red Ring for Life and Design, CEO Rescue, and CEO Rescue in the Rockies for STARS are registered Canadian trademarks owned by Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society. STARS Foundation and STARS Canada are registered marks owned by Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society. The Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service Foundation is a licensed user of STARS, STARBEAR, STARS and Design (logo), STARS & SPURS, STARS & SPURS Gala, STARS & SPURS Gala and Design. STARS Aviation Canada Inc. is a licensed user of STARS, STAR-1, STAR-2, STAR-3, STAR-4 and STAR-5. Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society is accredited as a full “Critical Care Provider” by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS). When the accreditation was initially awarded in 1998, STARS was the first international air medical program to achieve such distinction. 2 Every day I hear reminders of how what we do impacts people. Sometimes, it’s a thank you from a patient’s family. Other times, we are lucky enough to meet a person we’ve carried and learn his or her story. Recently, a letter came to us from a 23-year-old woman, thanking us for flying her when she was born prematurely in central Alberta in 1990. This young lady waited 23 years to share her gratitude. It’s letters like this that bring it all home. We’ve carried more than 23,000 patients in Alberta since STARS launched 27 years ago. But it’s not just about 23,000 patients. It’s about 23,000 families, 23,000 communities or 23,000 workplaces and schools. It’s incredible how having the privilege of caring for one individual can touch thousands. We are but one component of a safety net and when we impact one life together, that difference extends to families, workplaces and entire communities. Now, with bases in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, we have the opportunity to collectively spread hope across the prairies. This all began because Dr. Greg Powell, STARS founder and former CEO, had a vision. He cared for a patient 27 years ago whom he felt would have survived if delivered to the emergency department sooner. As a result, he was inspired to find a better way. Times were tough in the early days, as there was little funding for an unknown organization. The air medical crew raised money by selling hats from the back of a rented helicopter to buy fuel for the next mission. Six bases later we are here, bringing timely care and transport to the critically ill and injured across three provinces, because of you. None of this would be possible without our donors. You are the families that bake pies for raffles, the companies that lend financial support and the children who request STARS donations instead of gifts for your birthdays. I’ve been asked why launch STARS in Saskatchewan and Manitoba when we have done so well in Alberta. The answer is simple: if we can save one more life then all of this is worthwhile. That’s always been Dr. Powell’s vision. Supporters sometimes wonder if we use donations from Albertans to build bases in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. That’s not the case. All money raised in Alberta stays in Alberta. That said, all trails lead back to Alberta because we wouldn’t have had the capacity, knowledge or expertise built here over 27 years to be asked to go to other provinces. When that tiny baby was flown in 1990, STARS was in its infancy, too. You, the donors, made it possible for us to hear from that grateful woman today. For that, we thank you. We couldn’t have helped her, or flown any of those 23,000 missions without your support. Andrea Robertson President & CEO STARS and STARS Foundation Pilot training begins on the ground Flight lessons are intense and exhaustive Learning how to fly a new type of helicopter means more than just glancing at the manual in the glove box and hopping in for a flight. Here’s what our pilots have to undergo before they can fly the new AW139 on missions. 1. Ground school. In order to be certified on the new AW139, pilots must undergo two weeks of intensive training to learn the ins-and-outs of the new aircraft. 2. Sim time. Pilots are sent to AgustaWestland’s training facility in New Jersey to complete about 40 hours of flight time in a state-of-the-art computerized simulator. Though the simulator never leaves the ground, pilots have the opportunity to complete many simulated flights under a variety of conditions and variables. Once successfully completed, pilots receive “type certification,” meaning they are legally permitted to fly the AW139. 3. STARS training. Once back in Alberta, pilots are subjected to an additional three-day training course that focuses on our particular aircraft and its systems. This is done because of extra options and features that are installed on the STARS aircraft which are not present on the simulator. Hurricane halts helicopter If you think training for an exam is stressful, imagine doing so while 4. Sorties. The last stage in STARS training is to undergo four simulated missions (or sorties) under the watchful eyes of a STARS examiner. These include a VFR mission, which entails normal daytime flying; an IFR mission, where pilots rely on their instruments only and not what they can see outside the windows; a night mission; and finally, a rehearsal mission that involves the air medical crew on board and first responders on the ground in a simulated emergency medical response. the largest Atlantic hurricane on To keep their skills honed, STARS pilots will continue to complete periodic training on the AW139. Every six months, pilots will undergo a check on the simulator to demonstrate their skills and a yearly flight with an examiner that will ensure their skills continue to meet the high standards of the organization. Hurricane Sandy hit the region. record barrels towards you. While this may sound like the setup to a bad dream, it was the situation facing a group of six STARS pilots last October. The pilots were in New Jersey at AgustaWestland’s AW139 training facility undergoing simulator-based training when Although grounded for several days, all the pilots – and the AW139 helicopter – weathered the storm and returned to Canada safely. 3 Once the crew arrives on scene, Cloutier and the flight paramedic locate the emergency responders in charge of the scene and assess the situation. A day in the life Chain of survival 1 p.m. The crew arrives back at base and spends time between missions restocking the helicopter and filing patient care reports. When she’s not on a mission, Cloutier has other duties. She is part of a team, for instance, which is responsible for researching new equipment for the helicopter. “We do research and testing, and are always looking to improve patient care,” she says. 6 p.m. Cloutier’s shift is winding down. The night crew has arrived and meets to swap details with the day crew. It’s been a busy, but fulfilling day for Cloutier. “Each day is rewarding. Being able to help those who are sick or injured on perhaps their worst day is humbling.” No two days are ever the same at STARS. No two shifts are alike for flight nurses 8:10 a.m. 7:30 a.m. Cloutier arrives at the Edmonton base for her 8 a.m. shift and checks in with the night crew. “We swap out narcotics, radios and other equipment, and then discuss the overnight missions,” she explains. “We are always learning from each other’s experiences.” 8:47 a.m. Next, she organizes her gear, helmet and boots and puts on her flight suit. It is mandatory for air medical crew to wear a flight suit all shift in order to be prepared for a mission. The crew is dispatched for an inter-hospital transfer and learns details about the mission through the STARS Emergency Link Centre. The centre patches the crew 4 The helicopter is checked to make sure it’s ready to respond for an emergency. Other tasks are assigned too, to be carried out between missions. “We could be checking medical kits, restocking supplies or cleaning the back of the helicopter,” says Cloutier. Less than an hour into her shift the tones go off, signaling an emergency. Cloutier stops what she’s doing and grabs her equipment from the ready-room and a snack before boarding the helicopter. “Sometimes missions can last up to five hours,” she says. Remote site registry promotes teamwork, efficiency When STARS and Enbridge teamed up to offer advanced medical care at a recent motor vehicle crash, the “neighbour-helping-neighbour” approach helped highlight the importance of remote workplace site registration. On Aug. 27, 2012, a van travelling near Carnduff in southeastern Saskatchewan rolled off Highway 318 and into a ditch, leaving several passengers badly injured. Although two EMS providers arrived quickly, their basic life support training meant they needed additional help, so they called 911. Krista Cloutier checks the narcotics supply at the beginning of her shift. For the past six years, nurse Krista Cloutier has tended to critically ill and injured patients in the back of a helicopter. As is the case with other nurses working in hospitals or clinics, she’s learned that no two days are the same at STARS. Here’s is what a typical shift looks like. R.J. CALLAGHAN WORKS IN THE STARS EMERGENCY LINK CENTRE. into the phone consultation between the sending, receiving and transport physicians to learn about the patient’s condition. Onboard each mission is two pilots, a paramedic and a nurse. Cloutier’s role is to provide care to the ill and injured. “I could be treating them for pain or keeping them alive if they’re requiring full life support.” The decision was made to contact STARS and a helicopter was dispatched from Regina. In the meantime, STARS Emergency Link Centre communication specialist, R.J. Callaghan, referred to the registry to see if there were any worksites near the crash scene registered with STARS and whether their staff included paramedics. Luckily, Callaghan discovered that an Enbridge pipeline construction project near the collision was staffed by two advanced-care paramedics. Within 30 minutes of STARS being contacted, paramedics from the Enbridge site arrived at the scene. Director of industry services for the 10:30 a.m. Just as the crew delivers the patient to the receiving hospital, it is put on pre-alert for another mission. This time, it’s a scene call on a secondary highway. A vehicle has hit ice and slid off the road. If the helicopter has enough fuel and is mission-ready the crew will respond straight from the hospital without returning to the base. “This allows us to respond more quickly, saving precious minutes for the patient,” says Cloutier. STARS ELC, Dan Knapp, said the team of four “helped bring some order to this terrible situation. It’s about neighbours helping neighbours.” Sadly, one life was lost in the incident. The registry allows companies to record worksites with STARS in case their employees require emergency medical care in the field. Not all sites are the same. Unique ones include movie sets, motorcycle rides and police investigations. While there are roughly 4,000 registered sites across the prairies daily, that number recently hit a record high of 4,600. In 2012, STARS responded to 135 emergencies related to registered sites. Enbridge’s focus on safety encompasses employees, contractors and communities, says Glenn Herchak, director of public affairs, Canada and U.S. “By participating in the STARS remote site registry we can share our expertise keeping everyone safe.” The registry has been a partnership between STARS and the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers since the mid-1990s. There are more than 60,000 sites registered with STARS annually. Krista Cloutier 5 FEATURE VIP Jordan Fraser and his grandmother Myrna Cruickshank were transported 13 years apart. Family twice as grateful for STARS Youth inspired to support STARS jordan fraser Donations from children add up and inspire A routine day at a central Alberta ski hill took a tragic turn when 10-year-old Jordan Fraser flew off a jump and landed in a crumpled mess. It would take several months and many tears before his body recovered, but the Grade 6 student never lost hope. In February, 2012, Jordan hit a patch of ice, launched off a ski jump and fell to the ground. BE A VIP share your story We appreciate hearing from our Very Important Patients (VIPs) and “When I hit the air I looked at my hands and tried to figure out how I was going to land,” says Jordan. “But my plan didn’t work. I landed on the tips at the back of my skis and rolled over onto my stomach. My left leg was twisted up by my head and I knew right away it was broken.” their families. Often, we hear from patients shortly after their What he didn’t know yet was how terribly the rest of his body was injured. Jordan called for help, but no sound came out. His lungs were punctured. Ski patrollers took him down the hill on a spine board. After arriving at Red Deer Regional Hospital by ground ambulance, doctors determined Jordan’s injuries were so bad, he needed to be cared for in a trauma unit. STARS was dispatched from Calgary to carry him to Alberta Children’s Hospital. “When the doctors told us STARS was coming, we knew it was a lot worse than a couple broken bones,” says Jordan’s mother, Sharlene Fraser. “STARS comes when there’s no time to waste. We didn’t know if he was going to make it.” Jordan’s injuries were extensive. He broke both femurs, both hips, his pelvis, three vertebras and punctured both lungs. He was bedridden for several months. Then, he moved into a wheelchair for several weeks before gaining the strength to walk. It’s been a tough journey, but today, Jordan is much better. He has resumed running, diving into the pool and even skiing. mission. Other times, people wait years before they are ready to reach out to us. Either way, we feel privileged to Jordan’s flight wasn’t the first time STARS flew one of his family members. In July 1999 his grandmother, Myrna Cruickshank, was transported after suffering a heart attack in B.C. “They’ve been there for us twice and it really hits home,” says Fraser. “As you can see from our experiences, STARS doesn’t just come for car accidents. When they do come you know you are in good hands.” hear from you. If you’re interested in sharing your experience as a STARS patient, please call 403.516.4819 or email vip@stars.ca VIP Jordan Fraser met some of his crew recently, including paramedic Greg Barton and nurse Carolyn Vacey. 6 Tyson Hribnak wants to raise enough money by shoveling snow to fund a flight. In November, not long after Tyson Hribnak was transported by STARS following an explosion inside his family’s camping trailer, the 13-year-old started asking questions. held a rescue-themed party. In lieu of gifts, they requested donations to STARS. Days later Reese visited the Calgary base and “signed” an oversized cheque for $495. How much does it cost to operate a helicopter? How much to transport a patient? Who pays for the service? Once Tyson learned that about 80 per cent of STARS funding comes from donors, and that each flight costs roughly $5,400, he hatched a plan to express his gratitude. Her donation moved paramedic Greg Barton, who has been involved in a range of donor visits from large corporations to those from individuals. Donations from young children always put it in perspective, he says. “It’s particularly special to see a four year old come in with such enthusiasm for what she has done. It’s because of donations like Reese’s and Tyson’s that I take such pride in the work that I do.” “I decided I was going to raise money enough to cover my flight, so STARS can help one more family,” says Tyson. As he recovered, Tyson made posters detailing his story, explaining that he and his grandfather were burned by a fire inside their trailer while camping in southern Alberta last August. STARS landed on the highway and transported the boy to Alberta Children’s Hospital, where he spent eight days in intensive care and underwent several skin grafts. This winter, Tyson and his brother, Coltan, knocked on doors in their Okotoks neighbourhood, posters and shovels in hand, offering to shovel walks in exchange for donations. (S) Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society (F) Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service Foundation Lloyd Axworthy (S) University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg Linda Banister (S) Banister Research & Consulting Inc., Edmonton Myrna Bentley (S, F) Corporate Director, Saskatoon Bob Brennan (S) Corporate Director, Winnipeg Lyle D. Carlstrom (S, F) Kay McVey Smith & Carlstrom LLP, Grande Prairie Vito Culmone (S) WestJet, Calgary Anne Doig (S) Family Physician, Saskatoon Randy Garvey (F) Canadian Western Bank, Edmonton Andre Harpe (S) Wieso Acres Ltd., Valhalla Centre Rod Kennedy (S, F) RBC Dominion Securities Inc., Red Deer John Kortbeek (S) Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary Dan MacLean (F) Tundra Oil and Gas Partnership, Winnipeg Greg Melchin FCA (S) Corporate Director, Calgary David Mowat (F) Board Chair, STARS Foundation ATB Financial, Edmonton Elaine Noel-Bentley (F) Corporate Director, Calgary Irene Pfeiffer CM (F) Moorgate Holdings Ltd.,Okotoks “It’s a pretty lofty goal, but I am very proud,” says his mom, Karly, adding Tyson plans to shovel next winter, too. “He’s determined to cover the cost of his flight, no matter how long it takes.” Not every child who fundraises for STARS has a connection to the organization. In four-year-old Reese Melville’s case, she has personal ambition. Reese’s mother, Nicky, says her daughter has talked about being a “rescuer” since she could speak. To celebrate her birthday in January, the family Board Of Directors As of june 21, 2012 Douglas R. Ramsay (S) Calfrac Well Services Ltd., Calgary Dale Riddell (F) corporate director, east st. paul Evan Saugstad (S) Spectra Energy, Fort St. John Paul Smith (S, F) Talisman Energy Inc., Calgary Brian Vaasjo (S) Board Chair, STARS Society Capital Power Corporation, Edmonton Pat Youzwa (F) Corporate Director, Regina Reese Melville, 4, donated $495. 7 THE AW139 HELICOPTER ANATOMY OF AN AIR AMBULANCE ROTOR BLADES TAIL ROTOR Heated, five-blade, fully articulated, main rotor system that generates lift. DE-ICING SYSTEM An ice detection system and heaters in the rotor blades and windscreen allow the aircraft to operate in a greater range of weather conditions. Heated, anti-torque tail rotor provides stability at low speeds and hovering. FOUR-AXIS AUTOPILOT Four-axis autopilot controls direction (pitch, roll, and yaw) as well as speed. DIGITAL AVIONICS ICE DETECTOR The super-cooled large droplet ice detector allows crews to visually assess the level of ice buildup occurring on the aircraft; as ice accretes, different colours on the detector become progressively obscured. Five large LCD displays replace analog gauges and dials; equipped with a traffic collision avoidance system as well as enhanced ground proximity warning system. GLARE REDUCTION The black nose reduces glare by absorbing light rays and helps with night vision goggle use, in addition to day time flying. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ROTOR HEAD Speed: 150 knots (278 km/h) A titanium head that connects the rotor blades to the helicopter transmission and drive system. Length: 16.66 m (54.66 ft) Height: 4.98 m (16.36 ft) Allows rotor blades to tilt directionally while spinning. WIRE STRIKE KIT Designed to force wires from an inadvertent strike into a cutter mounted above the windscreen or below the nose. Powerplant: 2x Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C turboshafts with FADEC producing up to 1872 SHP RADAR Detects storm cells and lightning. AUXILIARY FUEL TANK Holds an additional 500 litres of fuel, which extends the flying range by approximately one hour. Rate of climb: 10.9 m/s (2,140 ft/min) Cabin space: 8 cubic meters (283 cubic feet) – ANDREA ROBERTSON, PRESIDENT & CEO, STARS AND STARS FOUNDATION SWASH PLATE POWERFUL TWIN ENGINES Dual engines provide added safety and lift under various flying conditions; Canadian-built Pratt & Whitney PT6C engines provide up to 1872 shaft horsepower. Rotor diameter: 13.8 m (45.28 ft) Maximum takeoff weight: 6,800 kg (14,991 lbs) "The real heroes today are the many donors to the STARS Foundation who made this accomplishment possible. Without them, the AW139 would still be on our wish list. Today, it’s in our hangar." LANDING GEAR Retractable landing gear allows for better aerodynamic performance in flight and eliminates the need for a dolly platform when landing at the base. The AW139 helicopter, enhancing access to pre-hospital emergency critical care. FEATURE VOLUNTEER volunteer with stars The success of STARS depends on the generous involvement of our volunteers. STARS has more than 450 people who act as ambassadors in the community. Dedicated volunteers give the gift of time and help in a variety of ways, including: • • • • • • Information booths Special events Casinos Office/administration Tour guides STAR Bear mascot/handler For more information contact the volunteer coordinator, toll-free 1-855-616-4847 or email volunteer@stars.ca. Gifts that take fliGht Great Gifts THAT HELP STARS SAVE LIVES stephanie kasinec Grande Prairie woman is proud to lend a hand 1.888.797.8277 It takes a special person to volunteer time to an organization. Stephanie Kasinec of Grande Prairie is one of those people. Kasinec has been lending a hand at the Grande Prairie base since attending the GPPA Hangar Dance for STARS in 2011. “Often accidents take place in remote areas and medical help can be hours away,” says Kasinec. “In situations like that, minutes count, and the only way to get to those patients is by air.” She first became involved through a practicum with her hospitality and tourism management program at college, but enjoyed volunteering so much she stayed on. Since her first event, Kasinec has returned to help at dances, golf tournaments and other events, such as Celebrate Under the STARS. “I support STARS because I feel it’s important to support non-profit organizations as much as possible,” Kasinec explains, adding her favourite volunteering opportunities are golf tournaments. Kasinec recognizes how important STARS is to rural communities, including Grande Prairie with its northern location and plenty of industry work throughout Peace Country. “They are a great way to raise money. The large oil companies are always very generous in sponsoring and promoting STARS,” says Kasinec. The Grande Prairie base hosts the popular ConocoPhillips golf tournament in June. For your ongoing financial support for the STARS program. “Thank you, Enbridge. STARS saved my life, and wouldn’t have been able to do so without the generous support of donors like you.” – TERRI AMEY, STARS VERY IMPORTANT PATIENT stars.ca Great gifts that help save lives It also makes her feel good to volunteer for a charity. Enbridge 10 FEATURE DONOR • T he gift of air | $25 | Oxygen tank refill STARS board member, Doug Ramsay, president and CEO, Andrea Robertson, and PSAC president, Mark Salkeld, celebrate a new record for the event. Long-running industry gala raises a record $1.1 million It was an historic night for two longtime partners. The popular STARS and Spurs Gala, an annual fundraiser presented by the Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC), raised a staggering $1.139 million in Calgary during one January evening. The 19th annual event was attended by roughly 1,100 guests, who dined on prime rib, danced to music by country singer Gord Bamford, and participated in exciting live and silent auctions. Since it began presenting the gala, PSAC has helped raise a total of more than $9 million for STARS. PSAC has helped raise a total of more than $9 million for STARS. The support and generosity of individuals, corporations and the energy industry left STARS president and CEO, Andrea Robertson, bursting with pride. “How do you thank these people?” she asked. “The support is overwhelming.” In addition to representatives from the energy sector, several STARS Very Important Patients attended the gala. You could hear a pin drop when VIP Michelle Salt shared her story. Salt was injured in June 2011 when she crashed her motorcycle while travelling near Cochrane. Michelle’s survival depended on the quick response of STARS to get her to hospital so doctors could stop her massive blood loss. Michelle later learned her outcome would have been different if she had arrived one minute later. In order to save Michelle’s life, doctors had to amputate her right leg eight inches above the knee. “I have heard from many people the incredible story of my pilots, who took a chance and made the decision to land right on the steep Cochrane hill, something I have been told is dangerous and almost impossible,” said Salt. “Doctors still tell me I’m lucky to be alive but I know it has nothing to do with luck. It has everything to do with the red and white helicopter filled with a talented crew that has the skills to help keep people alive.” PSAC credits all sectors of the oil and gas industry for working together to make the gala a long-term success. “This year’s turnout and the ongoing support speak volumes about the value our entire industry places on STARS and the critical work they do,” said Mark Salkeld, president and CEO of PSAC. • T he gift of diagnostics | $100 | Medical diagnostics testing • T he gift of visibility | $325 | Flight suit • T he gift of proficiency | $350 | Fuel the helicopter for a check ride • T he gift of safety | $450 | Helicopter maintenance check • T he gift of airspace | $500 | NAV Canada software for one year for one helicopter • T he gift of knowledge | $750 | Community outreach educator • T he gift of healing | $1000| Medical equipment used in the helicopter • T he gift of protection | $1300| Medical flight helmet • The gift of sight | $2700| Night vision goggle flight helmet • T he gift of training | $4000 | Human patient simulator maintenance • T he gift of flight | $5400 | Fund a STARS mission Learn more about these gifts and purchase online at STARS flight paramedic Ken King, left, VIP Michelle Salt and pilot Fraser Gamble enjoy the gala. foundation.stars.ca/gifts 11 UPCOMING EVENTS FACES OF STARS April TBDCelebrate Under the STARS Grande Prairie 1Radway & District Friends of STARS Dine and Dance – Radway 6Taber Charity Auction - Taber 28 A Pursenal Mission - Leduc June TBDConocoPhillips Golf Tournament - Grande Prairie Above: More than $120,000 was raised at the 2nd annual Bling ‘n Boots Gala in Edmonton, where 400 guests were entertained by award-winning music group, Hey Romeo. 6 10th Annual STARS & Lions Golf Classic – Calgary 7-8 Old Grouch 24-Hour Jam Drumheller 22 Drayton Valley Kin Club Golf Tournament – Drayton Valley July 1 thru Sept. Amazing Back Country Race – All of Alberta 5 – 14 Park for STARS, Stampede Parking - Calgary 12 Fifth Avenue Stampede Charity Breakfast - Calgary 13 Battle River Trail Ride for STARS Above & Right: The Building Magic in the Air Gala took place in Edmonton on Nov. 24, 2012, and raised funds for the purchase of a Spyder Crane, which will be used by engineers for helicopter maintenance. BELOW: Organized and hosted by STARS VIP Sherry Lindenback, the 4th annual Glamour Girls Gala on Oct. 20, 2012 raised more than $12,500, bringing the four-year total to $37,180. – Castor 13 Gleniffer Lake Resort vs. Carefree Resort Challenge Cup – Gleniffer Lake 13 Andrew Lattoni Deborah Wnuk DJ Lafrance Communication specialist in the STARS Emergency Link Centre Flight paramedic, Grande Prairie base Aviation technical project manager Time at STARS: Two years. Time at STARS: 13 years as a paramedic; four with STARS. Time at STARS: Favourite moment on the job: Favourite moment on the job: Completing the first BK117 helicopter upgrade project for Saskatchewan. We were under tight deadlines and other challenges in order for the Regina base to open on schedule. Also, it was the first STARS helicopter for Saskatchewan, which was electrifying in itself. Being part of what became a very large search and rescue response in southern Alberta. I helped coordinate a busy consultation of physicians, aviators, medical personnel and representatives from other agencies while handling other responses to unrelated emergencies throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan and eastern B.C. Never have I learned so much about the logistics of emergency response coordination in such a short time. Surprised to learn about STARS: The one that stands out the most is being able to make a difference in a patient’s life and having the opportunity to meet them after the incident. It’s always extremely rewarding. Surprised to learn about STARS: Our response time. Our crew of two pilots, one nurse and one paramedic aim to be mission ready and airborne in about ten minutes. 12 years. Favourite moment on the job: Surprised to learn about STARS: I hadn’t heard of STARS until the day I was contracted. Since joining the team, I have been amazed at how ingrained the organization is in the rural community. STARS is a hidden gem. One of the first realizations I had was discovering that people have the capacity to be both inspirational and knowledgeable at a very young age. Battle of Alberta Cup – Hanna august 1 Alan Jackson Concert - Grande Prairie 4 11 estlock Motorcycle Ride for W STARS – Westlock September 14 Bling‘N Boots Gala – Edmonton 21 Foothills Ride for STARS – Priddis 28Commitment to Life Gala Leduc 12 Please note: the EDMONTON BASE has MOVed Rumsey & District Agricultural Society Ride for STARS Rumsey The STARS Edmonton base has relocated to the Edmonton International Airport in advance of the closure of the Edmonton City Centre Airport. Patients flown by STARS will receive the same level of care and rapid response from the new location at the EIA. LEFT: The 3rd annual GPPA Hanger Dance transformed the STARS Grande Prairie base into a spectacular event on Jan. 12, 2013, raising more than $170,000. Our new address is: Suite 100, 1519 35 Ave East Edmonton International Airport, AB T9E 0V6. Our new main phone line is: 780-890-3131. Our new main fax line is: 780-890-3180. If you are in the Edmonton area consider stopping by for a tour. 13 With a career spanning 35 years in emergency medicine, STARS founder and former CEO, Dr. Greg Powell, became a world-renowned leader in the air medical community. As an emergency physician, university educator and pilot, Dr. Powell has been recognized internationally for his many accomplishments, including in 2007 when he was made an Officer in the Order of Canada. His more recent and upcoming awards and recognitions include: • Marriott-Carlson Lifetime Achievement Award presented at the 2012 Air Medical Transportation Conference; Dr. John Froh was on board the BK117 for an historic mission. • Calgary Stampede 2012 Western Legacy Award in recognition as one of Alberta’s 100 Outstanding Albertans; Transport physicians provide care in the air • Queen Elizabeth ll Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012; • Consumer Choice Awards Calgary Business Man of the Year in 2012; • to be presented with a Eurocopter Golden Hour Award from the Helicopter Association International in March 2013. Each of these prestigious awards reflects Dr. Powell’s commitment to saving lives. His entrepreneurial spirit and positive outlook have galvanized those around him to reach for the next goal and the next level in achieving what is the best, and what is right, for the patient. DR. GREG POWELL A different type of house call Doctors don’t make house calls too often these days, but that doesn’t stop our physicians from sometimes slipping on a flight suit and helmet, hopping in the helicopter and joining a STARS air medical crew as they care for a patient. Dr. John Froh, a transport physician and the medical director at STARS’ newest base in Saskatoon, was on board the BK117 medically equipped helicopter for the first mission on Oct. 15, 2012. “That mission will always stand out in my mind. We took flight less than an hour after launching that base and it really hit me that I was a part of medical history.” Even if the doctors aren’t in the air, they are connected to the mission. Froh describes the role of transport physician as that of a facilitator who supports his medical colleagues in rural regions by providing enhanced access to critical care. “When we receive a call for a patient whose life may depend on receiving care at a larger tertiary centre, our job is to manage the information and determine the best treatment for that patient, and the best mode of transport to the receiving hospital.” Physicians keep a phone with them during their shift, allowing them to connect with the medical team at a moment’s notice and when necessary, be airborne with the crew. 14 There are about 80 physicians working for STARS across all six bases. “We come online, listen, advise clinical care, and troubleshoot transport issues. Many times, it’s not just about flying to a scene or hospital – sometimes it’s a complex arrangement involving more than one emergency response provider.” Many times, it’s not just about flying to a scene or hospital – sometimes it’s a complex arrangement involving more than one emergency response provider. Transport physicians review every mission, whether they were on the call or not. This ensures the team is adhering to the highest level of patient care. Reviewing patient missions can serve as a humbling reminder and inspiration, says Froh. “The other day we flew out to help someone in respiratory distress and while the local providers were doing their best, that patient wouldn’t have survived without the advanced care that STARS offered. Playing a role in helping save a life is what this is all about.” SKIDS UP Abee1 Airdrie8 Alder Flats 1 Aldersyde1 Alexander Reserve 1 Alexis Reserve 1 Andrew1 Ashmont1 Athabasca25 Atikameg2 Banff19 Barrhead13 Bashaw1 Bassano8 Beaumont1 Beaverlodge12 Beiseker3 Bezanson3 Black Diamond 12 Blackfalds1 Blairmore17 Blue Ridge 1 Blueberry Mountain 1 Bon Accord 1 Bonanza1 Bonnyville21 Bowden2 Boyle22 Bragg Creek 5 Brazeau1 Breton6 Brooks23 Bruderheim1 Buck Lake 2 Burmis Weigh Scales 2 Busby2 Cadotte1 Cadotte Lake 2 Calahoo2 Calgary5 Calling Lake 6 Calmar2 Camrose15 Canmore16 Cardston5 Caroline3 Carseland4 Carstairs2 Carvel1 Castor2 Cayley1 Chestermere Lake 4 Chetwynd1 Claresholm25 Cochrane13 Cold Lake 6 Conklin1 Cooking Lake 2 Coronation3 Cranbrook, BC 11 Creston, BC 1 Crossfield3 Dawson Creek, BC 10 Daysland5 Debolt3 Demmitt2 Devon7 Dewinton1 Didsbury13 Dixonville1 Drayton Valley 33 Drift Pile 3 Drumheller12 Duffield2 Eaglesham2 Eckville1 Eden Valley Reserve 3 Edmonton3 Edson15 Elk Point 5 Elkford, BC 1 Enilda1 Enoch1 Entwhistle2 Evansburg1 Exshaw4 Fairview14 Fawcett Lake 1 Fernie, BC 12 Fort Assiniboine 3 Fort Macleod 9 Fort Saskatchewan 11 Fort St. John, BC 1 Fox Creek 9 Gibbons6 Girouxville1 Gleichen15 Golden, BC 14 Goodfish Lake 2 Gordondale1 Grande Cache 25 Grande Prairie 25 Grassland3 Grimshaw1 Grouard2 Grovedale11 Gunn1 Guy1 Hamburg1 Hanna12 Happy Valley 1 Hardisty3 Harlech1 High Prairie 19 High River 22 Hinton7 Hobbema1 Holden1 Horse Lake 1 Horse Lake Reserve / Hythe 1 Hudson Hope 2 Hussar1 Hythe3 Innisfail4 Invermere, BC 9 Jasper2 Kananaskis Country 1 Kathryn1 Keg River 1 Kelly Lake 1 Killam6 Kinuso1 Lac la Biche 3 Lacombe8 Laglace1 Lake Louise 2 Lamont5 Langdon3 Leduc9 Lethbridge61 Little Buffalo 1 Livingston1 Lloydminster5 Lodgepole2 Lone pine 1 Longview10 Manning3 Mayerthorpe20 McLennan3 Medicine Hat 2 Milk River 1 Millet1 Mirror1 Mission Beach 1 Morin1 Morinville3 Morley5 Mossleigh2 Mundare2 Namao4 Nanton4 New Sarepta 2 Newbrook2 Nisku1 Nitton Junction 1 Nobleford1 Nojack1 Nordegg6 O’chiese Reserve 1 Okotoks10 Olds11 Onoway1 Paul Band 1 Peace River 12 Peers1 Pickardville1 Pincher Creek 13 Pink Mountain 1 Ponoka7 Priddis2 Raymond1 Red Deer 54 Redwater18 Ridge Valley 1 Rimbey12 Rocky Mountain House 27 Ross Haven 1 Rycroft2 Saddle Lake Reserve 1 Sangudo1 Savannah1 Seba Beach 5 Sexsmith4 Sherwood Park 5 Silver Valley 1 Slave Lake 9 Smoky Lake 10 South Cooking Lake 1 Sparwood, BC 2 Spirit River 13 Spruce Grove 4 St. Albert 4 St. Paul 48 Stavely1 Steeper1 Stettler11 Stony Plain 11 Strathmore19 Sucker Creek 1 Sundre20 Swan Hills 7 Sylvan Lake 3 Taber10 Teepee Creek 2 Thorhild1 Thorsby1 Three Hills 12 Tofield12 Torrington1 Tumbler Ridge, BC 3 Turner Valley 1 Two Hills 8 Valemount, BC 1 Valleyview17 Vegreville19 Vermillion14 Viking9 Villeneuve1 Vilna2 Vulcan12 Wabamun3 Wabasca2 Wainwright13 Waiporous1 Wandering River 5 Wanham2 Warburg5 Waskatenau3 Wembley2 Westlock16 Wetaskiwin31 Whitecourt15 Wildwood4 William Valley 1 Winfield3 Woking2 Wonowon1 Worsley4 2012 TOTAL: 1539 STARS 2012 alberta Missions* Job profile Recognizing dedication TOTAl mISSIONS 1985 - 2012 = 23,973 *These missions were flown from our bases in Calgary, Edmonton and Grande Prairie and include some B.C. communities. Missions may have been scene calls in the area closest to the listed communities. 15 WHY DO YOU SUPPORT STARS? FEATURE DONORS Popular ride began as a grassroots movement This summer, the popular Rumsey Ride for STARS will hold its 24th annual fundraising event. While participants can expect the same exciting horseback trail rides and magnificent views of the valley near Drumheller as they have in the past, the event will be missing an important supporter. This time, Jacqui Goddard, a tireless volunteer and the face of STARS’ longest-running community event, won’t be there. Sadly, Goddard passed away in November. Ernie Goddard, Jacqui’s husband of 57 years, says this year’s ride will be most memorable, as it will serve as a tribute to his wife. “This ride meant so much to her and so did STARS,” he said. “We will have a prayer and a moment of remembrance for all the people who cared about Jacqui.” When it first began in 1989, the Rumsey & District Agricultural Ride for STARS raised roughly $5,000. To date, the group has raised more than $537,000 for STARS. “We didn’t know what to expect, but we went ahead anyway,” says Ernie, chairman of the organizing committee. “It’s grown beyond our dreams.” Wanda Freeborn, who works on the events team at STARS, says the couple’s dedication is unparalleled. “Working with Jacqui, and indeed Ernie, was such a pleasure,” says Freeborn. “This long-running event demonstrates how a grassroots movement can capture imaginations and become something magnificent.” JACQUI AND ERNIE GODDARD JOIN STARS PILOT MIKE POTTER AT A RECENT RUMSEY RIDE EVENT. STARS Horizons spring 2013 Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service Foundation RETURN UNDELIVERABLE ITEMS TO STARS HEAD OFFICE 1441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570 Calgary, ALBERTA T2E 8M7 If you would like to make a gift to help support STARS: • Call our Donations Department at 403-295-1811. • Make an online donation at stars.ca • Insert a cheque in the envelope provided.