Emery: A Princess Warrior’s Christmas Story

A lively three-year-old lovingly called “Princess Warrior” by her family. The nickname is a testament to her incredible strength and determination. Born with Classic Bladder Exstrophy, a rare and complex condition, Emery’s early life was filled with medical challenges. Her journey took a transformative turn when her parents sought care at GOSH International and Private Care (GOSH International), where Emery became the first American patient to undergo the Kelly procedure at GOSH performed by Professor Imran Mushtaq. Though daunting, this decision has proven life-changing, providing Emery with the foundation for a thriving and joyful life. You can read more about her story here.

Emery’s life has been transformed since her treatment at GOSH International. Since beginning nursery this year, Emery has hit milestones her parents, Ashlyn and Andy once feared might never come. One particularly proud moment was when Emery started wearing big-girl underwear—a significant achievement for the little girl who faced such challenging beginnings. Today, thanks to the extraordinary care she received at GOSH International, Emery is a vibrant, happy child who adores Disney princesses, outdoor adventures, and making people laugh.

Inspired by her own experience, Emery’s mother, Ashlyn has become an advocate for parents navigating similar challenges. Ashlyn co-founded the non-profit Parent Empowerment Network (originally Charlotte's Hope Foundation) in 2022 with another “medical mum.” Together, they host the Empowered by Hope podcast, which provides support to families of children with medical complexities worldwide. 

“Our podcast and online community have connected us with families from 17 countries so far,” Ashlyn shares. “While many of our listeners are in America, it’s incredible to see how universal the need for hope and connection is among parents facing similar challenges.” 

Reflecting on their journey, Ashlyn adds, “The care and connection we received have inspired us to give back, just as GOSH gave us so much hope for Emery’s future.” 

For the family, the Christmas season is a time to reflect on their blessings and celebrate resilience, love, and the joy of giving. As they look forward to another festive season, Emery can’t wait to wear one of the seven Christmas dresses her great-grandmother bought for her. Christmas embodies resilience, love, and the joy of giving.

Christmas in the family’s household is magical, filled with traditions that span generations. On Christmas Eve, the family attends a candlelight service at their church, followed by a cosy dinner and present opening. Christmas morning is reserved for unwrapping gifts from Father Christmas, watching classic holiday films like White Christmas and Holiday Inn, and sledging in the snow. 

This year, Emery and her older brother, Cole, are set to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time—another milestone for this adventurous family. 

But Christmas extends beyond their home. For 37 years, Emery’s great-grandparents have honoured a family tradition through their foundation, providing Christmas gifts for adults in central Indiana with severe brain injuries and disabilities—many of whom have no family. This year was particularly special, as Emery joined in the preparations, helping her great-grandmother, Linda, place bows on packages and lovingly hugging gifts as she worked alongside her aunt. 
“Seeing Emery help carry on this tradition was so heart-warming,” Ashlyn says. “She loved every moment of it.” 

Emery, along with her mum Ashlyn, tells us what they are most looking forward to this year. 

What’s your favourite part about Christmas? 

 
Spending time together with our family and celebrating the blessings of our year. 

 
Do you have a favourite treat to eat at this time of year? 
 

Our family makes the most incredible desserts, so we all overindulge on all things chocolate. Emery loves anything with extra frosting on it. 

 
Did you ask Father Christmas for anything special this year? 

 
Emery would like an Elsa baby doll and her own doctor kit. 

 
Do you have any wishes or hopes for the New Year? 
 

We pray for good health, fun adventures, and quality time together as a family. 

Emery’s story is a testament to the transformative power of exceptional care. As the family celebrate this Christmas season, they continue to embody the values of love, community, and gratitude, reminding us all of the true spirit of the holidays.