Well, that just stinks and I don't blame you for feeling upset!
It's like smiling through your Ex-Husband's wedding to a size 6, 20-years-younger-than-you, new bride while pretending that it doesn't affect you! How many of us could do THAT?
That project was your BABY! You gave birth to it, raised it, but didn't get to walk it down the aisle! I'm sorry, Friend.