Referring to her look-alike child as her "constant companion," the moment was all the more heartwarming following Taylor's announcement on April 9 that her mother was diagnosed with cancer after she urged to to get screened.
Andrea recalled in her speech: "I've watched this milestone artist from the time she was a tangle-haired little girl growing up on our farm filled with creativity, until now preparing for her world tour. Her favourite thing is to write a song, tell a story and play a guitar or piano."
"There was the time she was 17, her dad and I strongly disapproved of a certain young man and rightfully so. She was mad, real mad, and she went to her room and closed the door. She came back about an hour later with a song called Love Story.
"I witnessed a young girl with very few friends who has become a young woman with many. She's learning to stand up for herself and the things she believes in.
"Whether it's being brave enough to explore her musical curiosity and having a voice against those who hate and giving of herself to those in need."
During the speech Taylor looked on from the audience where she was seated next to her father, Scott Swift, 63, who kissed his daughter before she embraced her mother on the stage.
Speaking to the crowd, the Shake It Off singer referenced her transition from country to pop music.
"Somebody once told me that you truly see who a person is when you tell them something they don't want to hear," she said, adding, "You showed me who you are with the grace you accepted it, and I'll never forget it.
"So happy I learned how to write songs in a town called Nashville. I'm so unbelievably proud that I learned to treat people with kindness and respect from country music."
The blonde beauty shared on her Tumblr page on April 9 that her mother was diagnosed with cancer after she persuaded her to get screened for potential health issues.
However she did not disclose the specific condition or treatment plan, citing that the family wants to keep it private.
Taylor shared with her fans on the social media website: "For Christmas this year, I asked my mum that one of her gifts to me be her going to the doctor to get screened for any health issues, just to ease some worries of mine.
"She agreed, and went in to get checked. There were no red flags and she felt perfectly fine, but she did it just to get me and my brother off her case about it. The results came in, and I'm saddened to tell you that my mum has been diagnosed with cancer.
"[Andrea] wanted you to know because your parents may be too busy juggling everything they've got going on to go to the doctor, and maybe you reminding them to go get checked for cancer could possibly lead to an early diagnosis and an easier battle... Or peace of mind in knowing that they're healthy and there's nothing to worry about.
"She wanted you to know why she may not be at as many shows this tour. She's got an important battle to fight."
The Grammy winner was among several boldface names who received the same award, including Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire and Brooks & Dunn.
Another trophy for Taylor
Anyone else literally terrified?
My childhood is ruined ...
Preach!
Sam Smith is Lapping Up New Zealand!
- Daily Mail, nzherald.co.nz
