In a heartwarming announcement, Gerber revealed its 2018 spokesbaby—introducing Lucas Warren, a one-year-old from Dalton, Georgia, who is the first Gerber baby with Down syndrome. His selection has brought joy to many, highlighting the importance of representation for children with special needs.
Lucas, chosen from an impressive pool of 140,000 entries, will serve as the face of Gerber in various advertising campaigns and social media platforms throughout the year. His family, including parents, Emily and Mark Warren, expressed their astonishment and excitement upon learning that Lucas had won the annual photo contest. The victory includes a $50,000 prize, which will be directed toward Lucas’s education.
“I’ve always worried about how people would treat him,” Emily shared in an interview. “But this win is a fantastic opportunity to show the world that he’s just like any other child.” Mark added, “I want him to look back and feel proud, knowing he was the Gerber baby and made a difference.”
The Legacy of the Gerber Baby
The legacy of the Gerber baby began 90 years ago with Ann Turner Cook, the original face of the brand. For the last eight years, Gerber has hosted a photo contest to find a new spokesbaby each year. Ann expressed her delight in Lucas’s selection, saying, “It’s a privilege to be a symbol for babies everywhere. Lucas is adorable, and I can’t wait to see him flourish this year.”
Positive Response on Social Media
The response on social media has been overwhelmingly positive, with many celebrating Gerber’s choice to embrace diversity. People are excited to see a baby with special needs represent such a well-known brand, and the Warrens hope this will foster greater acceptance for children with differences. “We aim to show that special needs kids should be celebrated for who they are, not judged by their appearance,” Emily remarked. Mark added, “He has the ability to spread love and joy, which is what we’re most looking forward to.”
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Conclusion
In summary, Lucas Warren’s selection as the 2018 Gerber baby marks a significant step toward inclusivity and representation for children with special needs. His family’s journey showcases the importance of acceptance and the joy that comes from celebrating diversity.
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