Owen Ashworth

In 2013, just before his final year of high school, Owen Ashworth was seriously injured in a motorbike accident on his family farm. The crash left him with a brain injury, and STARS responded, providing him with the critical care needed to stabilize him and get him to hospital, where he stayed for three months.

Owen’s recovery was remarkable. He graduated high school and earned his 1A licence, which allowed him to drive semi-trucks. For several years, he worked on his family’s farm, doing grain and cattle work, as well as oil-patch jobs and driving a truck on a road crew.

In 2021, Owen faced another life-threatening incident and was again placed in the care of STARS. While operating a fertilizer machine, his vehicle collided with a semi-truck. STARS was called to provide immediate care at the scene and en route to hospital, where he needed surgery. This second accident resulted in another severe brain injury, but he has since recovered very well physically.

He’s been given a second and third chance at life.”
Janice Ashworth, Owen’s mom.

As a first responder herself, Janice emphasizes the importance of STARS in rural communities, where distance and time are critical factors in emergencies.

The Ashworth family has shown immense gratitude towards STARS. Since Owen’s first accident, they have been dedicated supporters, fundraising for the organization through their livestock business. Through their ongoing support, the Ashworths help ensure that others in similar situations receive the same second chances that Owen did.

“He’s living his life, and he thinks it’s awesome, so, we do too,”
Janice Ashworth.