STARS Rescue on the River raises an impressive $300,000

WINNIPEG, May 30, 2025  – Yesterday, three local industry leaders were transported to a remote location, where they took on a series of challenges and helped raise a remarkable $300,000 in support of delivering advanced critical care, anywhere.

Beginning at the STARS base in Winnipeg, the three enthusiastic participants were airlifted by the STARS red H145 helicopter to a location outside the city. Participants were tasked with completing a series of challenges, interspersed with calling friends, family, and colleagues to help meet their goal of raising at least $50,000 each. Funds raised through Rescue on the River directly support STARS’ mission of delivering safe, efficient, and advanced critical care to the next patient in need.

“Today was a powerful reminder that saving lives at STARS is only possible because of the community that lifts us up,” said Dr. John Froh, president and CEO of STARS. “Events like Rescue on the River give our supporters a firsthand look at the skill, teamwork, and commitment it takes to carry out every mission. From our air medical crews and pilots, engineers, sponsors, and allies — it takes a village make this work possible.”

As part of one of STARS’ most fun and interactive fundraising events of the year, participants got a glimpse into the day-to-day STARS operations. They also received a firsthand look at where donations go ─ supporting the advanced training of our air medical crew, the essential onboard medical technology, and our highly specialized H145 air ambulance helicopter.

“It was an honour to work alongside STARS team members with such refined medical expertise,” said Doug Huselak, Rescue Participant and President of Wintec. “Observing them in action only reaffirmed my confidence that the next patient in need will be in the best possible hands. I’m deeply grateful to contribute, and to be one small part of STARS’ incredible mission.”

Each participant was paired with a STARS air medical crew member to learn from the best and ensure their safety. Dan Aberhart, the president of Aberhart Ag Solutions; Doug Huselak, the president of Wintec Saddles; and Warren Giesbrecht a Sales Representative of Green Valley Equipment, rose to the occasion and gave it their all.

Rescue on the River is one of three Rescue events held by STARS. Rescue on the River in Edmonton will take place on Sept. 18, 2025, and Rescue on the Prairie in Saskatoon is set for Sept. 24, 2025.

For more information about STARS rescue events and how to get involved please visit STARS.ca.

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For more information contact:

Natalie Hofstetter, Communications Manager, STARS | mediainfo@stars.ca | 1-866-966-8277

About STARS
STARS was born from the conviction that no one should go without the care that could save their life. Operating 24/7 from bases in Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Saskatoon, Regina and Winnipeg, STARS is your best hope in a worst-case scenario. If you need critical care, our mission is to be there for you—physically or virtually—in whatever capacity we can help. Because when it comes to the next patient who needs us, it’s never too far. Learn more at stars.ca