After placing second in a local talent competition with his performance of Ne-Yo’s “So Sick,” Justin Bieber’s career took off. The performance received a lot of attention after his mother, Pattie Mallette, posted it to YouTube. She kept posting videos of Justin online, which eventually helped him become famous. Pattie’s autobiography, Nowhere But Up, was published by Christian publishing house Revell in 2012. Her challenging childhood—which included abuse, addiction, and being a single mother—is described in the book, along with how her faith gave her hope and enabled her to become a loving parent to Justin.

Their close relationship changed as Justin got older. When Justin turned 19, Pattie told People, “When your kids hit a certain age, your parenting style changes… it is hard letting go.” She considered the pride and emotional difficulties that came with his independence. When Justin was arrested for street racing in 2014, trouble started. They experienced a period of silence as a result of the strained relationship caused by the incident. In 2015, Justin told Billboard, “I never wanted my mom to be disappointed in me.” “Rebuilding that trust takes time, but things are improving.”

Their relationship has strengthened in spite of their difficult time together. Pattie has continued to encourage Justin and be pleased with the man he is growing into. She commended his moral character and spiritual development in an emotional Instagram post. “You are an incredible young man, and I am so proud of you. Your decisions clearly reflect your relationship with Jesus,” she wrote. “You are becoming wise and beautiful beyond your years.”

Their story illustrates the difficulties of raising a child in the face of hardship and celebrity. Both mother and son are still healing, developing, and inspiring today thanks to Pattie’s love and strength, which helped guide her son.