Every year, about 55,000 babies are born in Alabama, making thousands of people new parents. Many children have moms in their lives for years; others come to depend on grandmothers, aunts, friends or chosen family to support them.

We asked Alabama residents to share a photo of their mom — or a favorite mom in their life — and tell us what they appreciated about them.

We heard from many of you who shouted out moms, mothers-in-law, sisters, grandmas and other important people in your life!

You wanted to let us know about moms who are teachers, nurses, veterans, cooks and friends. Some of you had your mom around for a long time; others only had a few years with a loved one. You told us about moms who are funny, hard-working, kind and smart.

Read more coverage from AL.com about mothers fighting against gun violence, what new moms say they need to take care of their families, and how to support child care providers in Alabama.

Here’s what you said and shared:

“My mom is special to all of us. She and my Dad raised two great kids my brother and I, and she is blessed with 3 wonderful grandchildren. She turned 96 and what a blessing!!” — Beth Morgan Hicks

“My mom is the most selfless person I know. She has been an RN for 30+ years taking care of hospice and cancer patients. She is my biggest supporter and my biggest hero, the person who showed me true compassion and unconditional love.” — Molly Jean

“My mom, Debra Watkins, is special because she’s strong, kind, and talented. My mom retired from the US Air Force and is on the go helping people in her community. My mom is so kind, she is always putting others before herself. She stayed with my brother to take care of my nephew who was born with CDH. After COVID, she used her talents to teach music to all of Guin Elementary School. She also crochets prayer shawls for people in the community who suffer a loss. I’m proud to call myself her daughter. The world is a better place with her around!” — Jessica Scott

“My mom is such a caring and giving person. She’s always there to lend a hand whenever i need her. She enjoys visiting people in nursing homes even if she doesn’t know them. It means a lot to them knowing somebody cared enough to come by and say hi. She’s the best and I appreciate her very much.” — Heather Hooper

“My mom (Dawn) is SO important to me. Even though I am grown and out of the house, she continues to support me in any way she can. She’s always willing to go the extra mile without complaining about it. She loves every one of her people big.” — Maison Moore.

“This is my beautiful, strong, hardworking, loving mother…. She’s a wonderful mother and grandma that also loves her patients. (She refuses to retire). I’m so proud to call her my best friend and mom.” –Lashaun Parker

“My mom was the most caring person I know. She took care of anyone who needed her during sicknesses. She was always there for you. She was the best. I was blessed. Also my daughter is the mom of three very active children. One of them is autistic and she lives with her momma. My daughter is a great mom for all three of them.” –Marcia Manning

“My daughter Ashley Lauren Dutton. At age 34 and as a single, career-minded young lady she chose to adopt two children. She is a selfless mother who loves her children with all her heart.” –Andrea Dutton

“I appreciate my mama for always being present. She is very giving.” –Shunta McGee

“My mother, she passed away when I was 18 but she taught me to be true to myself and forgiving to others.” –Carl Lowe