Brynleigh Yewsuk

In 2015, when she was only four years old, Brynleigh suffered severe head trauma after a piece of farm equipment fell on her. This life-threatening situation required immediate medical attention, and a STARS air medical crew was dispatched to the scene through the STARS Emergency Link Centre. The crew cared for her en route to a major hospital, where she received the life-saving treatment she needed.

Nine years later, Brynleigh has made a strong recovery, and her mother Marcy is incredibly proud of how far she has come. Reflecting on the past, Marcy explains that Brynleigh used to need a walker and had difficulty standing, but today she is running cross-country, and playing para hockey and wheelchair basketball.

Brynleigh’s been the most determined kid you’ll ever meet. She has been her own push, her own drive, to conquer what life has given her.”
Marcy, Brynleigh’s mom

Brynleigh cherishes her STAR bear, which was given to her by her flight nurse Jennifer Pengelly and flight paramedic Jason Prokopetz en route inside the STARS helicopter, she explains that she’s “had it for a long time,” which is why it is so important to her.

Participating in sports and playing with friends and family, Brynleigh has persevered in the face of adversity and retains her unyielding spirit and spark.

STARS Very Important Patient Brynleigh Yewsuk holds the Star Bear she received after being flown by STARS. This photo was part of a series taken for the 2025 STARS Calendar.

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