IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Mom experiences the prom she never got to attend — thanks to her son

A single mother who missed out on her own prom because she was struggling to raise a child recently got a very special prom-posal — from her own son.
/ Source: TODAY

A single mother who missed out on her own prom because she was struggling to raise a child recently got a very special prom-posal — from her own son.

teen invites mom to prom
teen invites mom to promTrey Potter

High school student Trey Potter, of Gahanna, Ohio, surprised his mother, MelissaRoshan (MelRo) Potter, with a chance to experience the event that is a cornerstone for many teens across the country.

“She never had that experience and she’s risked so much for throughout my life and made so many sacrifices I thought it would be the right thing to do,” Trey Potter told NBC affiliate WCHM.

MelRo and Trey Potter
NBC4i

MelRo Potter grew up in 23 different foster care homes, and was pregnant and homeless by the time she was 16.

RELATED: Student with special needs is crowned prom king — with 37 dates

“When I was pregnant with him well, I heard, ‘Mel because you lived in the foster care system, you’re probably not going to raise a thriving individual. It just doesn’t happen. You can’t give him what you don’t have,’" she told WCHM. "So seeing who he has become and knowing the sacrifices that have been made and how much I love him and seeing that come to fruition, I’ve proved him wrong."

MelRo and Trey Potter
NBC4i

She went on to become a model and a makeup artist, and is now an advocate for other foster care children in the world.

RELATED: A bittersweet 'sisterhood': Girls honor late friend by wearing her prom dress

“I think it shows her how much I appreciate her cause I really do after all she’s been through and all I’ve been through with her,” Trey Potter said.