There is no shortage of heartstring-tugging ads involving mothers and children -- but add in a dose of achievements, failures and the worldwide spectacle of the Olympics, and there's no telling how many tears it might evoke.
The Thank You Mom campaign, recently launched by Procter & Gamble, puts a decided focus on the hard-working mothers whose children's athletics turn into a full-time job. Between the early morning wake-ups, the drying of disappointed tears and the literal holding up of their children's heads, the actors and athletes featured showcase the quiet support system behind every Olympic accomplishment.
P&G aren't the only ones paying attention to parents of athletes this year. As part of the Olympic relay for 2012, parents of athletes Derek Redmond and Chris Mears will be carrying torches to honour their dedication to their kids after they'd injured themselves during Olympic events in 1992 and 2009 respectively.
Depending on the sport, training to be an Olympian can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $30,000 per year, according to Forbes -- and that price tag doesn't include the often more valuable time spent taking kids to and from practices and watching competitions.
“I am very proud to be part of this campaign as I know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unconditional support of my mom and family,” said Olympian and world class marathoner, Paula Radcliffe. “Thank you, mom!”
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