Annabella Galiber wasn’t able to celebrate her birthday in typical fashion this week.

But with a little help from the community, it still was special.

A pink sign outside Casey Davis’ Leechburg home asked passing motorists to toot their horns to help Annabella celebrate her eighth birthday on Monday.

And honk they did.

“We had people beeping all day long,” said Stephanie O’Donnell, Annabella’s mom.

O’Donnell usually celebrates her children’s birthdays by picking them up early from school and taking them to do something fun. For Annabella, that could have meant getting her nails done or going to Sky Zone indoor trampoline park followed by a family dinner at The Melting Pot, one of Annabella’s favorite restaurants, and presents and cake.

The coronavirus pandemic put a wrench in those plans.

“We make a big deal out of the kids’ birthdays, and I was just trying to figure out how to make it fun for her,” O’Donnell said. “It just came to me, ‘Let’s put a sign outside so you don’t feel so alone. Everybody can celebrate your birthday.’ ”

On Monday, cars filled with friends and strangers drove by honking their horns for the young girl. Neighbors who were walking by sang “Happy Birthday.” People dropped off small presents for her on Davis’ porch. Davis is O’Donnell’s boyfriend.

The family celebrated by decorating the house with streamers and balloons. Annabella made her own birthday cake with the help of Davis, a chef. Dozens of friends FaceTimed in to sing “Happy Birthday.” She opened gifts. O’Donnell promised her a birthday pool party over the summer.

“We made a big obnoxious deal out of it,” O’Donnell said.

What did Annabella think of all the honking?

“I loved it,” Annabella said. “It just really helped me smile.”

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