Maureen Schnirer

STARS came into Maureen Schnirer’s life after a motor vehicle collision left her in critical condition. The accident occurred on a rural highway, and though she was initially taken to a local hospital, her severe injuries required STARS to transport her to a major urban centre for urgent, life-saving surgery.

With time and patience, Maureen was able to make a full recovery and went on to marry her longtime partner, Ken. Together, they built a life on a ranch, raising two children, Katelyn and Wyatt. Living as cattle and grain farmers more than an hour’s drive from the nearest urban centre, STARS provides a sense of security for Maureen and her family.

“I’m just so happy that I was able to go on and to live a good life and have kids. Katelyn and Wyatt mean the world to us, and we’re just so glad our family gets to have the benefits of STARS in the sky, watching out for us.”

Maureen, STARS VIP

Over the years, Maureen and Ken have often found many ways to support the organization.

“STARS made such a great impact on my life, and being a volunteer and working with the STARS team has been a lot of fun,” she says. The couple’s involvement with STARS has allowed them to give back to the community and ensure that others have access to the same life-saving services.

Almost three decades after her incident, Maureen continues to feel the positive impact of STARS in her life.

“Without that immediate response to a critical accident, it would be difficult to access the urgent care we need.”

Whenever the Schnirers see the STARS helicopter fly overhead, Maureen says they have a “special grateful heart” for everyone involved – the pilots, the crew – because, “they all make such a difference for those who need critical care.”