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Wednesday marked Tessa Osterhout’s 27th birthday. Osterhout tragically passed in August 2021 from mental health-related issues. In honor of her memory, Osterhout’s family started a fundraiser to give back to animals, a beloved passion of Osterhout’s.

“Tessa walked among us for 25 years and gained peace while those of us left behind gained a hole in our hearts,” Judy, Osterhout’s aunt said. “Her biggest passion was helping those who could not help themselves – for the most part these were animals with a few humans peppered in.”

Judy said to honor Osterhout’s memory and legacy, the family began a fundraiser for Trash2Treasured Animal Rescue. The fundraiser’s initial goal was set at $1,000. Judy said they’ve far surpassed that amount, raising around $2,000.

“We honor Tessa on her birthday by continuing her work of helping animals in need. She never asked for fanfare or even a pat on the back – she just did what her heart told her to do,” Judy said. “We have met our goal and exceeded it. It feels good to be able to give back to a cause so closely loved by Tessa.”

Judy said Gwen Klein, who runs the nonprofit, worked multiple jobs to fund the operation and take care of the animals in her care.

From the success of the first fundraiser, Judy said the family plans to make it an annual event.

“We will probably pick another rescue next year — probably in Alabama, where I just acquired a dog,” Judy said.

For those interested in donating to Trash2Treasured Animal Rescue, Judy asks to make all donations in Osterhout’s name. The fundraiser will be taking donations until the end of February.

Judy said there are a few ways to donate: by check mail to Trash2Treasures Animal Rescue 228 West Lakeview Drive LaGrange, GA  30240 or electronically Venmo: @Gwen-Klein-2

PayPal: @Gwen228.

“Our loved ones that have passed are not really gone. They live on through those they have left behind. Tessa continues to do good work for animals — just from a different address,” Judy said.