Ryan Herchuk

When Ryan Herchuk was 12, he was struck by a vehicle while riding his family’s all-terrain vehicle along a country road. He flew 40 feet and landed hard on the pavement. Fortunately, Ryan was wearing a helmet, but he received extensive injuries, including a cracked skull, a punctured lung, and a damaged shoulder.

By chance, an off-duty STARS flight paramedic came upon the scene and helped to provide Ryan with immediate care. The paramedic accompanied Ryan in a ground ambulance a rural hospital, from which Ryan was transported by STARS to a trauma centre in the city. During the flight, he suffered multiple seizures. Ryan was in a coma for eight weeks. When he awoke, he had to relearn the basics, including walking, at a rehabilitation hospital.

Despite these significant challenges, Ryan graduated and earned his Red Seal certification. Today, he enjoys his career as a heavy equipment technician.

When asked what he would say to everyone who supports STARS, his answer is straightforward and sincere: ​“Thanks!”