90-Year-Old Woman Continues 40-Year Valentine's Tradition of Kindness

Annette Albright has made the trip to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital's Birthing and Women's Center on her birthday many times.

At least 40, to give you an idea.

But this year was extra special. Not only did Albright turn 90, she also met the recipient of her usually anonymous gift.

“She just did not want anybody to know,” said her daughter Dayna Adamescu about her mother's gift tradition.

Ever since turning 50-years-old, Albright would commemorate her own birthday on Valentine's Day by donating a pink teddy bear and card to the first baby girl born on the holiday.

Albright herself was born at Mansfield Hospital in 1936.

As to why exactly she started this tradition, she can't pinpoint a specific reason. 

“I don't know,” said Albright. “It seemed like the thing to do. And it was fun. 
I enjoyed doing it.”

But one thing is for certain. She didn't want credit. And she certainly didn't want to interrupt a private family moment. 

“It just seems like I’m stepping into a family thing,” said Albright. “It’s their big day.”

But this year may be the last of this tradition.

After all, coordinating the shopping and surprise isn't exactly easy at 90-years-old.

So, her daughters Venus Breinich and Adamescu decided to reach out to Mansfield Hospital to see if she could meet the first baby girl born on the holiday.

And they're glad they did.

And while Albright's tradition may be over, the memories she's created will last generations and so will her legacy of kindness and giving. 

Albright would love to hear from families who've received her Valentine's Day gift in the past. You can send her a note at Primrose Retirement located at 1301 Millsboro Road in Mansfield, Ohio, with attention to Annette Albright.