Taylor Swift has long been Country Music's Sweetheart, and at the 2015 ACM Awards, she was shown just how much she is still loved by the community by being presented with the Milestone Award.

After a touching tribute chronicling her eight-year journey from teenage songstress to an accomplished young woman of many talents and styles, Swift’s mother, Andrea, walked on stage to present the prestigious award.

Mrs. Swift, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, spoke emotionally about her daughter’s love of songwriting and her journey to fame.

“Her favorite thing in the world to do has been to write a song, tell a story, play a guitar or a piano, and I’ve seen those things carry her through every emotion, every experience in her life — good or bad,” she said.

Swift’s mom also told the origin story of one of the artist’s biggest hits.

“Her dad and I strongly disapproved of a certain young man,” she said with a smirk. "She was mad — she was real mad — and she went to her room and closed the door, and came out about an hour later with a song called ‘Love Story.’"

Mrs. Swift has been very involved with her daughter’s life and career as the artist has grown, and her pride is evident in every word she spoke during the tribute.

“I witnessed a young girl with very few friends become a young woman with many, learning to stand up for herself and the things she believes in, being brave enough to explore her musical curiosity, having a voice against those who hate, and giving of herself to those in need,” she continued. “I am a very proud mom."

Swift accepted the award with an emotional hug, and recognized the country music community for being accepting of her latest ventures into the pop realm.

“When I told you I wanted to make a pop album and explore other genres, you showed me who you are with the grace you accepted that with,” Swift explained. “I’m so happy that I learned to write songs in a town like Nashville. I’m so grateful that I learned what hard work is from my heroes who are all sitting here, and so unbelievably proud that I learned to treat people with kindness and respect from country music."

Swift was the youngest artist to ever win album of the year at the ACMs and has won seven ACM awards over the course of her career.

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