Collin Gosselin, one of the former child stars of Jon & Kate Plus 8, paid an emotional tribute to Colleen Conrad, the former longtime partner of his father Jon Gosselin, calling her his “real mom” in a heartfelt social media post. Sharing a message on Instagram on June 17, Collin, 22, marked Conrad's birthday while acknowledging the role she played during a difficult period in his life.“I didn’t plan this at all, but coincidentally on the day of the official announcement of my book, it is Colleen’s birthday,” Collin shared via Instagram on Wednesday, June 17. “She is the strongest woman I know, who stepped in at the toughest part of my life and CHOSE to be a mother to me. Happy birthday to my wonderful, hardworking, passionate, and I could go on… to my real mom.”He added, “I love you so much. Also I had to add a Rascal Flatts song, because we always sing Rascal Flatts songs together.”Jon Gosselin and Kate Gosselin divorced in December 2009. Jon later began a relationship with Conrad in 2014, and the couple remained together until their amicable split in 2021. Despite ending their romantic relationship, the two have remained close, with Jon supporting Conrad throughout her battle with breast cancer.Conrad responded to Collin’s tribute in the comments section, writing, “This made me cry and yes I would sing it you, Jesse and Jordan! That is my wish! I’ll always be here for you and you are my son. I love you!”Collin replied with another emotional message about the bond they share. “The love you feel for a mom you were given is incredible. But the love you feel for a mom that CHOSE you is something so powerful,” Collin added in the comments. “I am so fortunate ❤️ @colleen.conrad122 I love you so much 🫶🏼”Collin has been estranged from his mother, Kate Gosselin, and several of his siblings for years.