In a groundbreaking moment for representation, the 2018 Gerber Baby is the first to have Down syndrome. Meet one-year-old Ethan Miller from Dalton, Georgia, who has captured hearts as the new face of Gerber. His selection marks a significant step forward in promoting inclusivity, as he will feature in the brand’s advertising campaigns and social media throughout the year.
A Family’s Joy
Ethan’s family, including his parents, Sarah and Mark Miller, were astonished to learn that he had been chosen from a staggering 140,000 entries in the annual photo contest. Along with the honor, they received a $50,000 prize, which they plan to invest in Ethan’s future education. Sarah expressed her hopes for Ethan in a recent interview, stating, “My biggest worry has always been how others would treat him. I’ve feared bullying or that people might shy away from him. But he’s always been our beloved son, and nothing will change that.” Mark added, “I want Ethan to grow up proud, to say, ‘I was the Gerber baby. I made a difference.’”
The Gerber Baby Tradition
The Gerber Baby tradition has spanned over nine decades, beginning with Ann Turner Cook as the original ambassador. Gerber has hosted this photo contest for the past eight years, inviting families to submit their little ones for a chance to shine as the brand’s representative.
Community Response
The response on social media has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the decision to showcase a child with special needs. Community members have expressed hope that Ethan’s role will help others understand that children with Down syndrome are just like everyone else and deserve acceptance based on their character.
“I hope this highlights the special needs community, showing that they should be celebrated for who they are, not judged by their appearances,” Sarah shared. Mark emphasized their excitement about the joy Ethan will bring to others, saying, “He gets to spread love and happiness, and that’s what we’re most looking forward to.”
Additional Resources
For more insights on home insemination and related topics, be sure to check out our other blog posts, including this one on terms and conditions. If you’re exploring options for starting a family, resources like Make a Mom can provide valuable information. Additionally, Drugs.com is an excellent resource for understanding female infertility and related concerns.
Conclusion
In summary, Ethan Miller’s selection as the 2018 Gerber Baby represents a significant milestone for inclusivity in advertising, inspiring hope and joy in families with special needs children. His journey is set to resonate far beyond the realm of social media, encouraging acceptance and love.