The Annie Effect: “Do Better, Be Better, Love Better”
Annie Olsen
Some people make the world more beautiful, even when they stay in our lives for just a short while. They leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same. Those we have lost are always connected by our heartstrings into infinity. On June 20th of this year, Annie Olsen would be turning two years old; however on October 6, 2022 at only three months old, Annie passed away in her sleep, leaving behind her mom, dad, and five siblings.
Her brief life mission was completed, but Annie continues to inspire many people in our community today. Bekah Olsen, Annie’s mom, is committed to helping others through Annie’s memory. “As we approach the second anniversary of the passing of our sweet baby Annie, we are reaching out to the community to join us in honoring her memory. Annie was a blessing to everyone around her, and although she is no longer here, her spirit lives on all around us”. To celebrate what would have been Annie’s 2nd birthday, Bekah, her family and friends, and Lethbridge Family Services, are organizing a community collection drive for the second year in a row. We invite you to donate items that would have brought joy to her on her special day. These gifts, suitable for two-year-olds, will be used to support LFS newcomer families and Angel Tree children, spreading the love and light that Annie embodied.
“We want to help as many families as we can in honor of Annie,” says Bekah, “It is what she would want. We want her life to be remembered as one that motivates each of us to love one another a little bit better. We call it the Annie Effect. Annie has left an impact on many people in our Lethbridge community and we want to focus on lifting others instead of wallowing in our pain of not having her here with us. So thank you for all your goodness and contributions. It means everything to our family”.
Gifts can be dropped off until June 21 at Lethbridge Family Services on weekdays: 1107 2A Avenue North, between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm.
Bekah Olsen holding her daughter, Annie.
Bekah Olsen and friends in front of donations made to Lethbridge Family Services in Annie’s memory.
7,344 diapers, along with several boxes of wipes and many toys, were gathered during Annie’s 2nd birthday celebration.
Annie’s 2nd birthday celebration.
Bekah Olsen at Annie’s 2nd birthday celebration.
Lethbridge Family Services provides highly-accredited health and social services to over 9,000 individuals and families in more than 30 communities in southwestern Alberta, through the professional services of more than 380 staff, and the support of over 550 committed volunteers. LFS's vision is a connected and inclusive community where people thrive.
Media Contact:
Michelle Gallucci
Director, Advancement & Communications
Lethbridge Family Services
mgallucci@lsfamily.ca
403-915-8028
