Airdronian builds on family legacy through donation to Airdrie Fire Department

Airdronian Tracy Osborne made a generous donation to the Airdrie Fire Department creating the “Made in Airdrie Solution.” The “Made in Airdrie Solution” will help the Airdrie Fire Department be more prepared and provide more training for dire situations.  

Osborne has reasons that hit close to home for her as to why she felt like she needed to help Airdrie. 

“44 years ago, there was a tragic car accident. My 17-year-old brother and another gal lost their lives. The other occupants of the vehicle survived with an ambulance and our precious EMTs showing up promptly. Since my family's personal tragedy, I still silence the radio and say a prayer every time I see an ambulance with flashing lights and sirens.” 

Osborne continued on, “I'll never forget the enormity of tears, anxiousness, and panic rising. Every second felt like minutes, minutes felt like hours thinking I could possibly lose another loved one. My hope is that  Airdronians won't feel like that in the near future. Reassurance, relief, and comfort are what is needed most in trying times with help and the best of hands arriving promptly.” 

Five months ago, Osborne joined the Airdrie EMS Citizens Action Committee. Osborne immediately reached out to City of Airdrie Councillor Ron Chapman.  They both agreed that a donation would help take better care of the community and hopefully assist our Emergency Medical Technicians 

“After many tireless hours and dedication, the “Made in Airdrie Solution” speaks volumes that humanity and compassion still exist in these troubled times. It is, it has been, my absolute honour and privilege to help and hopefully refuel each and every Airdrie citizen’s heart tank. I personally know it has refuelled my own.” 

The Osborne name has a long history of doing good in Airdrie, starting with Tracy’s grandparents calling Airdrie and Balzac home in the early 1940s. 

“My late grandparents always took pride in their community and contributed back all their lives.” 

Osborne’s grandfather was awarded the new Nose Creek Historical Society Award and the Alberta Heritage Service Award for his preservation and his voluntary service for what he has done for Airdrie. 

“He was one of the five original pioneers that came up with the vision of the Nose Creek Valley Museum. He just always gave back to his community. When he wasn't out working, he was always at a meeting helping with something within our community or building something for our community and preserving the heritage.” 

Osborne's mother, Merle also continued the legacy, "My mom would host New Year's Eve parties at the Balzac Hall where 100 per cent of the proceeds would go towards the Stars Air Ambulance.

Many different roads and a park have been named after the Osborne family, such as Osborne Drive, Osborne Link SW, Osborne Rise SW, and Osborne Park. 

“That's why I'm blessed to be here today continuing their legacy and sending the elevator back down to where it's needed most in our city.” 

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