Months ago, an opportunity presented itself through the Special Olympics of New Jersey for a casting call for young athletes for P&G Brandsaver's "Thank you, Mom" campaign. After the casting call, we found out that we were being "called back" for a photo shoot and some of the photos taken during the photo shoot would be used for a coupon booklet released on Mother's Day weekend. P&G's "Thank you, Mom" campaign was going to be highlighting the Special Olympics and would donate money for every coupon used.
The photo shoot was a new experience for me and so much fun! The room was set up with LOTS of different food and drink choices, people there to play with the kids who had "stations" of their own to keep them occupied, wardrobe, hair, and makeup. The guy that did my hair was from FRANCE and listed a bunch of celebrities whose hair he had done. I was dressed in an outfit and then had my makeup done. I LOVED the experience!
Despite the fact we had to repeat the same "scene" several times, Colin was really cooperative because he loved playing soccer and loved the fact everyone there was cheering for him. The hardest part was that we were going to have to wait months to see the finished product on Mother's Day!
It was worth the wait to open up my newspaper and see that picture of my little boy on the front cover!
Four years ago, I was a scared Mommy with a new baby with a diagnosis I wasn't expecting. I felt like my "plan" had been changed and I wasn't prepared for what I thought my future was going to be like. However, Colin has taught me so much in such a short time, far more than I ever could have learned on my own. When I opened the newspaper and saw that picture I cried because I am so proud to support my little boy and embrace what our future is going to be.
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