To The Mothers Who Have Not Been Called 'Mom'

Last March 2024, we asked our readers to submit photos capturing the raw and unfiltered moments of parenthood. Out of thousands of entries, 50 best motherhood moments were selected and announced on Mother's Day This article is part of a series that delves into the stories behind the 10 winning photos of the Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 photo contest.

For photographer and mom of three Melanie Jane Medina, taking photos of candid moments mean more than posed shots. 

This is what she realized when one of her photos was awarded among the winners of Smart Parenting's Parenthood 100 photo contest. It was a photo she took of her client and friend, Mommy Racquel Ong-Sotto, with her son Jakob. It was during Jakob's 3rd birthday, and they had a simple celebration in a hotel in Pasay City. Melanie was hired to be the event photographer. Jakob has Down syndrome.

^{'Proud Ausome Mom' is among the top 5 winning photos of Smart Parenting's Parenthood100 photo contest, announced on Mother's Day.}

"Originally, we planned an outdoor photoshoot for his birthday celebration, but the unexpected heavy rain forced us to pause. While waiting for the rain to stop, Mommy Racquel kept Jakob entertained, and that's when I took this remarkable photo," Melanie shared with Smart Parenting.

She captioned the winning photo, "To all moms who haven’t heard the word “mom.” The ones who are up all night and still show up during the day. The ones who fight like hell to get their kids what they deserve. The ones who say they are okay because they know people wouldn’t get it. We see you and we admire you." 

On parenting a child with special needs

The photo, Melanie explained, was captured in between the busy day and amid meltdowns.

"Parenting a child with special needs require extra effort. But it is a journey that is full of love and growth," she said.

It's an inspiring reminder of a mother's unwavering devotion, that no matter what challenges come their way, this photo shows that a mother's love knows no bounds.

"I hope this photo encourages parents to embrace and cherish their children for who they are, celebrating their strengths and supporting them through any challenges they may face." —Melanie Jane Medina

"A proud 'ausome' mom like her is a true example of a special needs mom with confidence and grace, a caring parent showering her child with unconditional love and support on his special day. Let this photo inspire us to face life's difficulties with determination and to cherish the precious moments we have with our loved ones," Melanie shared.

Capturing cherished moments

Mommy Racquel's husband was out of the country and wasn't able to celebrate Jakob's birthday with them, but Melanie's role in documenting the precious moments ensured that Jakob's birthday was still filled with cherished memories. 

"Understanding the significance of capturing these memories for Mommy Racquel and her husband, I dedicated myself to documenting every special moment shared between mother and son throughout the celebration. From the joyous laughter to the tender embraces, my goal was to immortalize these heartfelt interactions," the photographer and mom of three shared.

"The image serves as a testament to the power of capturing and sharing moments of love, even when physical distance may hinder direct participation. It reminds us of the importance of finding creative ways to connect with our loved ones, no matter the circumstances, and the profound impact it can have on maintaining strong familial bonds," Melanie added.

Message to parents with special needs children

Through this photo that stood out over 5,000 entries, Melanie hopes to convey a message that despite the challenges that come with raising a special needs child, the love and joy between parent and child make it all worthwhile.

"Many parents may struggle to admit or come to terms with their child's condition. Some may even feel a sense of shame or embarrassment, especially when their child has meltdowns in public. However, when observing Mommy Racquel with Jakob, I never saw any of these attitudes in her. Despite the crowded environment at the hotel during the celebration, she never displayed any hint of hesitance or shame towards her son," she shared.

This photo encapsulates the powerful message that no matter the circumstances, a parent's love for their child, regardless of their special needs, shines through. "It serves as a reminder to all parents that the journey may have its difficulties, but the love, happiness, and unique moments shared with their child are the true rewards. I hope this photo encourages parents to embrace and cherish their children for who they are, celebrating their strengths and supporting them through any challenges they may face. It exemplifies the unconditional love and acceptance that every child, especially those with special needs, deserves from their parents."

Melanie said she touched upon the unique circumstances faced by parents, such as having a child with special needs and the challenges of maintaining a connection when a parent is abroad. These aspects of parenthood make it even more raw and authentic, as parents navigate through the complexities of raising their children, facing and embracing the realities of their individual situations. "In sharing these stories, I hope to validate the experiences of parents, showing that their love, dedication, and sacrifices are truly appreciated and acknowledged. Parenthood is a journey filled with raw, unfiltered emotions, and it is in those moments that the most authentic love and connection is forged."