EMMET’T’S STORY 

On March 17, 2024, Emmett’s journey began when he started twitching on the slide at a park. After calling 911, we immediately chose Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Up until then, Emmett was a healthy, happy 3-year-old who loved playing with friends and his sister, Emma. We never imagined he could become severely ill.

Emmett’s condition quickly worsened from one seizure to being diagnosed with anti-NMDA-receptor encephalitis, a rare brain inflammation. He became psychotic, then catatonic, and started multiple rounds of immunotherapy, medications, and blood plasma exchange. Dr. Jannetta Arellano, his neurologist, was a constant presence, offering hope. But Emmett’s condition didn’t improve, and we felt like we were losing him.

Months passed, and Emmett became one of the longest-staying patients on the Neurology floor. By June, he was stable enough to go home, but his recovery was slow. After trying new treatments, including a never-before-used infusion, Emmett began showing signs of improvement in July and August. He started sitting up, standing, and undergoing intensive therapy at CHOC Outpatient Rehab. By October, he was walking, and by December, he was talking, eating solid food, and enjoying Christmas with his family.

A year after his illness, Emmett’s recovery continues. Though he still has some motor and cognitive challenges, he’s making progress. His infusions and therapy are needed less often, and we are incredibly grateful to CHOC and Dr. Arellano for giving him another chance at life.

———
I'm so excited to be participating in the 2025
CHOC Walk in the Park presented by Disneyland® Resort on Sunday, August 3, to raise funds for CHOC!

I can't wait to reunite with our Walk community for an early morning stroll through Disneyland® park and Disney California Adventure® park. You won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience filled with special entertainment and surprises before the parks open to the public.

Every dollar raised from this magical event will support health care programs, education, and research at CHOC and CHOC at Mission Hospitals. More than two million children a year depend on CHOC. And our community's generosity is what provides access to the best possible care and services. 

You can help me exceed my fundraising goal for the benefit of the children's health and well-being by:

-Donating now by clicking the "Donate" button above or
-Joining me at this year's event at the Disneyland® Resort by registering here

Many thanks in advance for helping us write a new future for so many children and their families. 

With Gratitude,

Lany