The winner of Gerber’s 13th annual Photo Search and 2023 Gerber Baby, Madison “Maddie” Mendoza, is a military kid whose father serves as a lieutenant colonel and physician in the United States Air Force.
According to a release from Gerber, Maddie’s dad Jun is also a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and has been serving for 16 years. Crystal, Maddie’s mom, is a dentist. Both parents are first-generation from the Philippines. Both of Maddie’s grandfathers served in the U.S. Navy and came to America with very little.
Launched more than a decade ago, Photo Search was inspired by countless photos sent by parents who see their little one in Gerber’s iconic baby logo. The Medozas winning entry was a throwback photo of Maddie and Crystal.
“Being a rainbow baby, Maddie has brought us immeasurable joy with every milestone, snuggle and moment spent with her enriching our lives and making every day more meaningful and beautiful,” said Crystal. “We look forward to witnessing her grow into a kind, compassionate, strong, independent and worldly individual as we hope to be stationed overseas again to teach Maddie about all the different parts of the world.”
The Mendozas have been together for 22 years, from their days as high school sweethearts.
At almost 10 months old and living in Colorado, Maddie enjoys baby music classes, thrives in her swim lessons, loves hiking with her parents and fearlessly explores new foods, according to the release. The family enjoys the outdoors, photography, trying different foods and restaurants and interacting with animals.
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“The throwback submission of Maddie and her mom brought a smile to the judges’ faces and perfectly captured the spirit of this year’s program,” said Tarun Malkani, Gerber President & CEO. “We’re excited to partner with Maddie and her family throughout the next year to highlight the full-circle journey from baby to parent.”
Maddie will be featured on Gerber’s social media channels and marketing campaigns throughout the year. She and her family were also awarded a $25,000 cash prize, free Gerber products for up to one year, a new wardrobe provided by Gerber Childrenswear, as well as surprise perks from our partners.
Gerber is also matching Maddie’s cash prize with a donation to support March of Dimes’maternal and infant health programs.
To learn more, visit here.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.
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