Santa Claus is coming to town, but not by a reindeer and sleigh, instead he is coming via STARS Air Ambulance to visit the Pediatric Unit at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.
Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation Philanthropy Engagement Officer Sally Bellerose says the annual event is important for their patients and families alike, as it lets kids know they are cared for during a difficult holiday season.
“It’s really just a special thing for our pediatric patients, they’re our youngest and bravest patients, and when Santa can make it all the way in for special trips just for them it really brightens their day,” she says. “It means that during this scary and sometimes lonesome time, they’re still thought of, and Santa is going to go that extra mile and make sure they’re taken care of this time of year.”
According to Bellerose, the STARS signature red helicopter will act as “Santa’s sleigh,” and give him direct access to the pediatric unit and its patients.
“They give him a safe ride right to the hospital’s helicopter pad which gives him expedited access to those kiddos.”
The foundation has set a tentative flight for 10:00 a.m. on December 18th pending availability from STARS; however, Bellerose says if STARS is called on a mission, the time will be deferred to 1:00 p.m. or 10:00 a.m. the next morning.
