Tearful Birthday Cake: A Single Mom’s Viral Moment of Strength
Being a single mom isn’t easy. On May 23, 2024, Elizabeth Teckenbrock shared a short TikTok clip that captured her at her lowest—and turned her into an internet symbol of courage.
The Viral Video
In a quiet kitchen, Elizabeth poured flour into a bowl and quietly cried. Over the clip, she wrote, “Being a single mom is making your own birthday cake on your birthday so that your babies can feel happy they are singing to you.” Set to “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri, the video struck a chord. Within days, it racked up over 37 million views and 121 000 comments as strangers around the world sent her messages of love.
Ex’s Explosive Response
Just when the support was pouring in, Elizabeth’s ex-husband, Andrew Cormier, stepped forward with shocking claims. He posted his own TikTok explaining their custody agreement: he has full custody on weekdays, weekends, and holiday breaks. He accused Elizabeth of owing him $21 175 in child support, stealing nearly a million dollars, and even faking cancer. “She barely has her kids,” he said. He went further, calling her irresponsible and warning other single moms not to look up to her.
A Community Rallies
Netizens refused to stay silent. Comments flooded in:
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“You’re doing a great job, you are so loved. I would’ve killed to have a mom like you growing up.”
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“My mom was a single mom for much of my life. You’re so seen. So much respect for you.”
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“There are many hard-working single moms out there—thank you for showing your real life.”
Adult children of single parents shared stories of late nights and tears, reminding Elizabeth she wasn’t alone.
Elizabeth Speaks Again
In a follow-up video, Elizabeth explained her tears weren’t just sadness but pure exhaustion. “I really can’t even come up with words to say how difficult it is raising kids, taking care of your house, doing everything by yourself,” she said. She admitted she felt like “an emotional baby” filming her breakdown, but she wanted other single moms to know their struggles are valid. By the end, her children helped decorate cupcakes and sang “Happy Birthday” to her—moments of joy after tears.
What This Teaches Us
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Strength in Vulnerability
Real moments of struggle can unite us. -
Power of Community
Online support can lift spirits and defy harsh critics. -
Respect for Single Parents
Juggling parenthood, work, and home takes relentless effort.
This story is more than a crying birthday cake—it’s proof that sharing our toughest times can spark empathy and solidarity. To every single parent reading this: your hard work matters, your feelings matter, and you are never truly alone.