Lethbridge–On June 20, Annie Rae Olsen would have been turning one year old, but it was sadly not meant to be. In October of 2022, at just 3.5 months old, Annie passed away peacefully in her sleep leaving behind her parents and five older siblings. The word devastation does not even touch how they felt or continue to feel.
However, bringing meaning and purpose to Annie’s short, yet perfect life on this earth is what helps them to carry on. Annie’s life was brief yet impactful. Her sweet spirit lives on and reminds us all to not sweat the small stuff, be kind to one another, and intentionally try to be better in all the different relationships in our lives. Truly, “there is no foot too small that it cannot leave an imprint on this world.” (quotation from unknown author).
A life may last just for a moment, but memory can make that moment last forever. Her mother, Bekah Olsen, says she is not the same person she was when Annie was here. “Annie’s passing changed me in a way that only a mom can understand, and I am determined to make her life one that is full of love and kindness and intentionally showing up for those around her. This is what Annie would want.” When Annie passed, the outpouring of love towards the Olsen’s from their family, friends and community was astounding. They were carried through the entire process leading up to and through the burial of their sweet Annie. This outreach has continued even to the present. Annie’s passing brought people together and continues to help remind people what actually matters in life—each other. To do better, be better and love better. They call this “The Annie Effect.”
To honour Annie and her 1st birthday, Bekah and her community collected gifts suitable for a one-year old baby girl to be donated to Lethbridge Family Services. This includes clothes, books, toys, blankets, diapers, formula, and other essentials. Bekah says, “I don’t have the opportunity as a mom to buy my baby girl any presents for her birthday, but we can as a community come together in honour of Annie and give to those in need. So instead of buying Annie presents, we can honour her and help provide for other sweet baby girls in need".
A birthday celebration was held for Annie on June 20, 2023, to gather donations and gifts for LFS newcomer families and Angel Tree children. The donations were delivered to the LFS Angel Tree offices on June 22, 2023, with Bekah, her friends, LFS staff, and media in attendance.
