STARS’ patient Jay Rimke almost didn’t graduate college.
Part way through his first year of an agriculture management diploma, the vehicle he was travelling in was broadsided by a train. He sustained a severe head injury and slipped into a coma.
“I can’t recall the moments before the crash or my rescue, but I know that without STARS I wouldn’t have graduated college,” said Rimke. “Without STARS – and the medical professionals who fought so hard to save my life – I couldn’t have walked across that stage to the roaring cheers of my teachers, family and peers.”
Today, Rimke has not only graduated, but is proudly working on his family’s farm as an award-winning fourth generation farmer and rancher.
Rimke is one of 13 Very Important Patient stories featured in the 2017 edition of the STARS calendar. In the same way STARS was there for Rimke, Viterra, is there for STARS.
For the second year in a row, Viterra is the presenting print sponsor of the calendar – one of the charity’s single, largest fundraising programs.
Andrea Robertson, STARS president and CEO, said support from Viterra bolstered this year’s calendar – which features bold artwork and compelling success stories about some of the patients we’ve cared for across Western Canada.
“We are grateful for the vital support we receive from families, communities and organizations like Viterra,” said Robertson. “Every year, we impact the lives of thousands of patients and we simply couldn’t do it without your support.”
For Kyle Jeworski, Viterra’s president and CEO for North America, partnering with STARS is a natural fit.
“STARS provides hope when people are at their most vulnerable,” said Jeworski. “Through their tireless efforts, STARS has touched the lives of many, including our employees, our customers, and their families. At Viterra, we’re proud to continue our significant support of this critical service.”
The calendars are available for purchase at 63 Viterra locations beginning Sept. 12 or online at starscalendar.ca. To learn more about the partnership, or to find a Viterra location near you visit viterra.com.