Family creates legacy through ‘The Annie Effect’ fundraiser that pays tribute to their late daughter

A birthday celebration is being held for Annie Olsen, who died at three months of age in October 2022, to support Lethbridge Family Services.

Lethbridge Family Services is helping to put on the fourth annual “Annie Effect” birthday celebration and community collection drive.

Annie Olsen was born on June 20, 2022.

But just three months later, Annie died suddenly in her sleep. Doctors still aren’t sure from what.

Annie’s mother Rebekah and the entire Olsen family were devastated.

Friday, TELUS donated two-thousand dollars towards the campaign in honour of Annie.

“That’s diapers, that’s blankets, that’s wipes, all these things that these families.. we take for granted,” said Annie’s mom Bekah Olsen. “And there are so many families that don’t have access to this, so I thought why don’t’ we throw her a birthday party and our friends, family, community can bring gifts as in for Annie to then give to the community.”

“Through a transformational gift, the largest individual donor commitment in the 116 years of history of Lethbridge Family Services,” said Michelle Gallucci of Lethbridge Family Services.

“The Olsen family has chosen to create a lasting legacy in Annie’s memory,” Gallucci added. “Their vision is that Annie’s spirit of love, generosity, and joy will live on in perpetuity with the new Annie’s angel tree toy depot. “

The birthday party is set for next Friday evening at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden.

For more information about The Annie Effect, go here.