Local HERO, Web Image
FORT MCMURRAY — Suncor and Syncrude are providing a combined $600,000 to support Local HERO Foundation’s helicopter emergency medical service in the RMWB and surrounding areas.
The funding will help keep HERO1 operating around the clock, providing rapid emergency transport to rural and remote communities, industrial sites, highways and backcountry locations.
Local HERO says the helicopter can reach patients in areas inaccessible to ground ambulances or where air transport provides a significant time advantage.
“This investment comes at a pivotal time for Local HERO,” executive director Lorna Ash said.
“Suncor has been a longstanding supporter of our mission, and we are incredibly grateful for this year’s contribution and the additional support provided on behalf of Syncrude.”
Ash said the funding will help keep HERO1 ready to respond when minutes matter.
The investment comes as Local HERO continues discussions with the Alberta government about establishing a long-term, sustainable funding agreement for the service.
HERO1 has completed more than 800 missions since the program began operating in 2013.
The helicopter is staffed by two pilots and two RMWB advanced care paramedics and is available 24 hours a day.
Patients are not billed for the service.
Local HERO Foundation board chair Bryce Kumka said the support helps ensure people in remote parts of the region can still access emergency care quickly.
“Support of this magnitude helps ensure that geography does not determine someone’s access to emergency care,” Kumka said.
The service is operated by Phoenix Heli-Flight using an Airbus H135 twin-engine helicopter equipped with a specialized medical interior.
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