JEFF’S 207K IMPACT
Thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication of participants, “Rescue on the River 2025” was a resounding success. Jeff Granberg raised an impressive $207,000 in support of STARS, contributing to a collective total of $720,000 raised by all six participants, well beyond STARS’ original goal of $450,000.
A Hands-On Experience With STARS
As part of the challenge, Jeff took part in a series of simulated emergency scenarios designed to reflect the real-life demands faced by STARS personnel. His activities included:
- Suiting up for action, similar to how first responders prepare for a call
- Landing on the river and resolving a mechanical issue with the aircraft
- Decoding garbled communications, from headquarters to determine next steps
- Applying a tourniquet in a high-pressure situation
- Performing CPR for three minutes
- Drilling into a bone to install an IV
- Intubating a practice dummy
- Identifying safety hazards, a challenge Jeff won, due to his strong focus on safety
Throughout the day, Jeff consistently highlighted the exceptional teamwork and camaraderie among STARS staff. From dispatch to flight crews, the coordination and professionalism on display were a testament to the organization’s commitment to excellence.
Honouring A Lifesaving Legacy
Jeff was paired with Deb, a STARS nurse with 28 years of service. Her experience and dedication exemplify the values that have guided STARS since its first mission in 1985. Today, STARS continues to operate 24/7 across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, providing rapid emergency medical transportation and hands-on training to rural medical providers.
A Message From Stars
Following the event, Jeff received a personal thank-you message from the STARS team:
“Thank you for everything you did at Rescue on the River. As a top fundraising participant, you should be so proud of what you accomplished! We are so grateful for your support and the amazing amount of money you raised for STARS.”
This message reflects the deep appreciation STARS has for its supporters and the critical role they play in keeping the organization mission-ready.
Why STARS Matters
On average, eleven times a day across Western Canada, someone requires emergency, life-saving medical attention. STARS exists to ensure those patients receive the care they need, whether through rapid air transport or advanced medical support in remote areas. Before a helicopter can lift off, before a crew member can don a flight suit, before a ventilator can be turned on, STARS relies on the support of individuals and communities. Every donation helps fund innovation, training, and the advanced technology that makes airborne critical care possible. In fact, most STARS aircrafts are more technologically advanced than ground ambulances, allowing for faster diagnostics and more effective treatment in transit.
A Personal Thank You From Jeff Granberg
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone who donated and supported my Rescue on the River mission. Your generosity not only helped me reach my personal fundraising goal, it helped STARS exceed theirs, ensuring more lives can be saved when every second counts.
I was proud to have been part of this initiative, and even more proud to know that these funds will help ensure STARS is there for the next patient who needs them, like they were for me two years ago.
I would also like to recognize the other five participants who took part in the Rescue on the River mission: Brandon Spiller, Christy Elliot, Lorne Gould, Mark Beck, and Tony Bagga. Their collective efforts helped raise $720,000 for STARS, and their commitment to the cause was nothing short of inspiring.”
Final Thoughts:
Teamwork At Its Finest
One of the most striking aspects of Jeff’s experience during Rescue on the River was witnessing the exceptional teamwork among STARS personnel. From the moment the simulation began, it was clear that every member of the crew, from flight paramedics and nurses to pilots and dispatch, operated with precision, trust, and mutual respect.
STARS teams are trained to perform under pressure, often in remote or high-risk environments. Their ability to communicate clearly, adapt quickly, and support one another is not only impressive; it’s essential to saving lives. Whether coordinating a complex medical procedure mid-flight or responding to rapidly changing conditions on the ground approach ensures the highest level of care for every patient.
Jeff consistently emphasized how seamlessly the STARS staff worked together. Their professionalism and unity reflect the core values of STARS: compassion, excellence, and a relentless commitment to patient care.
Jeff Granberg’s experience with STARS Air Ambulance was more than a fundraising challenge; it was a firsthand look at the power of collaboration in critical care. The precision and unity displayed by the STARS team serve as a reminder that lifesaving work is never done alone. It takes a coordinated effort, built on trust and shared purpose, to deliver care when and where it is needed most.
Thanks to the support of donors and the dedication of participants, STARS can continue to operate with excellence because when every second counts, teamwork saves lives.
To view other partnerships and community initiatives, CLICK HERE.