A complete surprise.
That morning at Taylor-Brawner Park in Smyrna, Rose Diggs had no idea what was coming. Family, friends, community, breakfast in a bed in the middle of a city park, a mayor with a proclamation, a Grammy-nominated singer, and a video message from one of the most recognizable voices in music - none of it was on the schedule. None of it was on her mind.
Good Morning America had chosen Rose as their 2026 "Breakfast in Bed" honoree, the annual Mother's Day tradition that recognizes a mother whose love has shaped many.
For Rose, "many" is more than 300: the foster children who have come through her home over the past decade, and the hundreds more who have come through Down 7 Up 8's tutoring, mentorship, and family programs since she founded the nonprofit in 2016.
The surprise was nominated by Rose's children, Tanya Nebo and Euniq Nebo.
"Makes everyone feel accounted for, important, special, worthy. From the time you say hello, she'll greet you with a smile, a kind smile and a warm heart."
Diamond Robinson, one of the many young people Rose has helped raise, called Rose her granny.
"Everywhere I go, that's my granny. She's just a beautiful sunflower. She just blooms. Her aura, everything about her is mind-blowing. She is a perfect figure to look up to."
Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton declared May 8, 2026 Rose Diggs Day.
"Smyrna, Georgia, is incredibly proud to call you one of our own. Your love has changed hundreds of lives, but your impact goes well beyond our city."
Grammy-nominated singer Keri Hilson, a Georgia native, performed live at the park. Music superstar Usher sent Rose a personal video message and invited her to his upcoming R&B tour.
And several companies stepped forward with support for Down 7 Up 8's mission:
- Equifax - $20,000 grant
- Straight Talk Wireless - $15,000
- Mattress Firm - $15,000 toward grant-writing services, plus the breakfast in bed
- Skechers - 300 pairs of shoes for children heading back to school
Rose's response, in her own words:
"I'm so grateful that they think that I deserve this, because I'm telling you, they are all beautiful people too, and I just want to share it. I'm glad I can share it with all of you."
That line captures Rose, and that captures Down 7 Up 8. The work has never been about one person. It's about a village - caregivers, mentors, partners, donors, and children who hold each other up.
This moment isn't a finish line. It's a thank-you to everyone who has carried this mission with us - and an invitation to everyone meeting Rose for the first time.
There is room for you here.
