[I am Jack]

Boy raises $100,000 for copter service that saved big sister
Canadian Press
May. 18, 2007 09:15 AM


CALGARY - A grateful young Alberta boy has raised $100,000 to say "thanks" to the air ambulance service that saved his big sister's life after a ski mishap.

Sam Stretch, 8, said he only expected to raise about $1,000 when he offered to shear off his thick hair, but donations soon eclipsed that amount.

"Its one of the best moments of my life," the grinning youngster said Thursday, surrounded by adoring supporters and two red rescue helicopters.

"Giving up my hair is a small price to pay."

On Feb. 17, Sam's sister Tessa, then 10, collided with another skier and then crashed head-first into a steel lift tower at the Fernie Alpine Resort in British Columbia

Suffering life-threatening brain injuries, she was eventually flown to the Alberta Children's Hospital by STARS, Alberta's helicopter rescue service.

Doctors didn't expect her to live, but she defied the odds, making it to Thursday's hair cutting to hug her devoted, stubble-headed brother.

"I think it's really special . . . if STARS didn't save me, I wouldn't be here today," said Tessa, who turns 11 on Friday.

"I hope STARS keeps saving other people's lives."

Even the hair Sam gave up is going to a good cause - it will be turned into wigs for cancer patients.

STARS spokesman Bart Goemans said the organization was overwhelmed by Sam's efforts.

"When Sam does something, we realize he doesn't do it small," Goemans said.

"This rivals any corporate donation, no doubt."

Sam said he got the idea for the fundraiser from his dad, who badgered him to get a haircut.

"So I thought about shaving it - I wouldn't have to get it cut for a long time," he said.