Who We Are
We’re a movement for movement.
At The Love for Lewiston Foundation, we believe physical agency is a right, not a privilege, and we exist to protect it. We are the bridge for families navigating SMA, the voice for systemic change, and the relentless engine chasing a cure.
The Love For Lewiston Foundation raises critical funds for the SMA Community and The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation. With the help of our volunteers, donors, sponsors and partners, we have raised over $3,400,000, changing the lives of families and individuals living with SMA.
Meet Lewiston
In 2016, the Olstad family faced the unimaginable. After a courageous battle with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Lewiston Olstad passed away at Rotary Flames House, just three days shy of his six-month birthday. In the wake of profound loss and inconceivable heartbreak, a radical choice was made: to spend what would have been Lewiston's first birthday not in a pity party, but at a dance party.
What began as a single night of celebration has ignited a decade-long movement. The Love for Lewiston Foundation was born from the belief that we must squeeze every drop of joy out of the life we are given. This "Choose Movement" mentality resonated deeply, rallying a community that refused to let the story end in a hospice room.
Lewiston Olstad lived for 179 days, but his impact will last for generations. Born from a desire to celebrate Lewiston’s life rather than mourn his passing, The Love for Lewiston Foundation has become a powerhouse of community and hope.
Lewiston’s Legacy
Since 2017, the foundation has evolved from a local grassroots effort into a sophisticated force for good. With the unwavering support of partners and donors, we have raised over $3.4 million to date. These funds serve as a lifeline, fuelling critical SMA research, supporting the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, and providing essential resources for families navigating the complexities of an SMA diagnosis.
What began as a community dance party for Lewiston Olstad’s first birthday has evolved into a multi-million dollar force for change.
A decade of impact
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A decade of impact ~
As we mark a decade of impact, we are standing on the threshold of our most ambitious year yet. Our 2026 goal is to cross the $1 million mark in total funds donated to the Alberta Children’s Hospital and hit a $4 million lifetime milestone.
Interested in supporting our mission?
We are looking for architects of the next decade. By joining us, you aren’t just putting a logo on an event, you are ensuring that Lewiston’s legacy continues to provide light, hope and movement to those who need it most.
