A Temecula girl with cerebral palsy takes the stage with the help of Rady Children’s
Emery Lapinskas, a vibrant 10-year-old from Temecula, loves to tell jokes, hang out with her sisters, and spend time with her service dog, Skip. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) at just a year old, Emery has faced many challenges. CP can impact muscle control, leading to difficulties with walking, coordination, and fine motor skills. However, with early intervention, therapies, and dedicated support, kids like Emery can lead full lives.
“Sure, I need wheels, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be seen and do amazing things,” she says.
Emery discovered a passion for music a few years ago and joined a local youth musical theater. She has since performed in six productions. The stage has helped her build confidence, form friendships, and develop skills beyond what she and her family ever imagined.
Emery has received physical therapy, occupational therapy, and orthopedic treatments at Rady Children’s and underwent hip reconstruction surgery earlier this year. The procedure, performed by Patrick Curran, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Rady Children’s and an assistant clinical professor of orthopedic surgery at UC San Diego School of Medicine, was designed to address hip displacement, a common concern for kids with CP.
However, just weeks before the surgery, Emery was cast in an upcoming movie, Maybe We Should, a heartwarming story about a young girl with special needs and her family’s quest to build a world-class therapy center. Filming presented an incredible opportunity and a unique challenge, which she conquered.
“Her story is a testament to how expert medical care, combined with determination and family support, can lead to extraordinary outcomes,” says Dr. Curran. “Caring for children with CP requires a multidisciplinary approach. At Rady Children’s, we take pride in offering personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each child.”
The Southern Family Center for Cerebral Palsy at Rady Children’s, part of the Orthopedic and Scoliosis Center, is one of the nation’s most comprehensive programs dedicated to the care of children and adults with CP. Rady Children’s Murrieta Specialty Clinic provides specialized care to families in the region, ensuring they have access to world-class pediatric specialists.
“Emery has always faced challenges with a smile and an unshakable spirit,” says her mom, Megan. “Watching Emmy chase her dreams has been inspiring. She is proof that with love and perseverance, anything is possible.”
As Emery continues to pursue acting and advocacy, her journey serves as a beacon of hope for other children and shows that with the right support, dreams are always within reach.
“Don’t give up. There’ll be obstacles. But with love and dedication, you’ll achieve great things together,” Emery says.