In a heartwarming moment that had Sheinelle Jones wiping away tears live on air, the TODAY co-anchor’s three children made a special surprise appearance to celebrate the release of her first book, Through Mom’s Eyes.
On April 13, Sheinelle was caught off guard when her children—son Kayin, 16, and 13-year-old twins Clara and Uche—appeared on the set to show their support for their mom’s big milestone. The book, which Sheinelle dedicated to them, captures her journey of motherhood and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
With a bouquet of flowers in hand, Kayin stepped forward first, offering a heartfelt tribute to his mother. “Words can’t even describe it,” he said, clearly emotional. “I’m so happy for you, mom.” Kayin then reflected on the years of hard work Sheinelle put into the book, which she began writing during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The project became even more meaningful after the tragic loss of Sheinelle’s husband, Uche Ojeh, in May 2025.
“I’m so happy for you,” Kayin said as he embraced his mom. “We’ve obviously gone through so much.”
Her son Uche, also visibly emotional, shared his admiration for his mother. “I feel like her compassion and kindness to everybody she’s around just has such a good effect on everybody,” he said, hugging her tightly. “Love you, mom.”
The most touching moment came when Clara handed Sheinelle a framed quote that Sheinelle often attributes to her late grandmother: “I’m doing the best I can with the light I have to see by.” As Clara presented the gift, Sheinelle wiped away tears, clearly moved by the thoughtful gesture. “It’s the quote that you live by and that Gigi said,” Clara explained. “I wanted to give this to you.”
Through tears, Sheinelle managed to joke, “I love you guys so much… OK, now to school.” The moment was filled with love and deep emotion as Sheinelle’s children reminded her of the strength and resilience they share as a family.
Clara also gave her own personal review of Through Mom’s Eyes, admitting she had read the book during a plane ride. “I actually really liked it,” she said. “I remember I was on the plane, and there were no TVs on the flight, my phone was dead, and I was just like, ‘I’m going to read your book.’”
Through Mom’s Eyes isn’t just a personal memoir—it’s a collection of the wisdom Sheinelle gained from interviews with some of the most influential mothers of public figures, including Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Lady Gaga, Tyra Banks, Matthew McConaughey, and more. One of the most poignant interviews was with Wanda Durant, Kevin Durant’s single mother, which now resonates with Sheinelle more than ever as a single mother herself.
Sheinelle shared her deep respect for Wanda, saying, “I had respect for her then, and I have a new respect for her now.”
The emotional dedication of the book to her children was a reflection of the powerful lessons Sheinelle has learned over the years. “I want my kids to know that they are my everything,” she said, her voice breaking. “Tomorrow’s not promised. What would I want to leave for my kids?” With her life dramatically changed after the loss of a parent, Sheinelle’s book serves as a legacy for her children. “Now they have this book, and they know their mom through this book,” she added.
The emotional moment and the heartfelt words from Sheinelle’s children proved that the book is more than just a professional achievement—it’s a loving tribute to her family. It’s clear that Through Mom’s Eyes is as much a gift to her children as it is to her readers.
