Taylor Swift’s Mother Presents Her With ACM 50th Anniversary Milestone Award [WATCH]

In what is bound to be one of the most poignant moments in ACM Awards history, Taylor Swift was given the 50th Anniversary Milestone Award by her mother, Andrea Swift, who is battling cancer.

"I've watched this milestone artist, from the time she was a tangle-haired little girl growing up on our farm until right now, as she prepares for her next world tour," Andrea Swift said from stage. "Ever since then, her favorite thing in the world to do has been to write a song, tell a story, play the guitar or piano, and I've seen those things carry her through every emotion in her life -- good or bad. Every once in a while, her dad, her brother or I find ourselves to be the subject of those songs.

"Sometimes, we're merely the inspiration," she continued. "Like the time she was 17 years old and her dad and I strongly disapproved of a certain young man, and rightfully so. But she was mad, she was real mad. She went to her room, and she closed the door, and she came out about an hour later with a song called "Love Story."

"For many years, I was her constant companion, and 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," Andrea Swift added. "Being brave enough to explore her musical curiosity. Having a voice against those who hate and giving of herself to those in need. Like many of you out there tonight, with children of your own, I am a very proud Mom.

"So I'd like to thank the ACMs for honoring her in this way, but I'd also like to thank the entire music community, for taking such good care of her," the emotional mother concluded. "And to the fans, I know you love her as I love her, and for that I thank you eternally. And so, it's my pleasure, my pride and my joy to introduce my daughter, Taylor Swift."

Swift emerged, looking breathtaking in a floor-length silver gown.

"Somebody once told me that you truly see who a person is when you tell them something that they don't want to hear," the singer said. "You truly see who a person is when you give them news they weren't expecting. And so, to the country music community, when I told you that I had made a pop album and I wanted to explore other genres, you showed me who you are with the grace you accepted that with.

"I will never forget it. I'm so happy that I learned to write songs in a town like Nashville," she continued. "I'm so unbelievably proud that I learned to treat people with kindness and respect from country music."

Swift also reminded her fans that she would return to AT&T Stadium in a few months for her upcoming 2015 1989 World Tour. Press play on the video above to watch the entire presentation.

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