On Saturday, January 19, 2019, a record-breaking over $1.4 million was raised for the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS) at the 25th Anniversary PSAC STARS & Spurs Gala. Hosted by the Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC) since inception, the gala – STARS’ single largest fundraising event – has raised more than $17 million over the past quarter-century.
“I am so humbled by and grateful for the community who has supported the PSAC STARS & Spurs Gala over the past 25 years, especially our generous partner, PSAC, and its members,” says Andrea Robertson, president and CEO of STARS. “Albertan’s philanthropic spirit continues to amaze me even through times of change and uncertainty. When you see a red helicopter in the sky, know that your support has helped STARS continue to help the critically ill and injured and provide emergency care across the province.”
Over 1,500 guests attended the western-themed gala, which was held at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park. The evening featured a champagne reception, delicious food, live and silent auctions, raffles and a virtual reality experience where guests had a first-hand look into what it’s like to be on board a STARS mission. Country music stars Gord Bamford, George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett provided lively entertainment for guests who danced the night away. The night also featured a salute to families of the Humboldt Broncos tragedy.
Since 1985, STARS has provided safe, rapid, highly-specialized emergency medical transport systems and care for the critically ill and injured. Operating from 24-7 bases in Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg, STARS also offers hands-on training to rural medical providers. Its mandate is to save lives through partnership, leadership and innovation.
As the gala’s host, PSAC – the national trade association representing the service, supply and manufacturing sectors within the upstream petroleum industry – draws attention to the important role STARS plays in ensuring industry workers have access to emergency care, even when working in remote locations.
“I am so proud of the oilfield services sector in Alberta who has opened their hearts and wallets to support STARS,” said Gary Mar, president and CEO, PSAC. “The STARS & Spurs Gala is integral to bringing community members together to fuel STARS’ mandate of saving lives, and we are thrilled to be a part of this steadfast partnership.”
