Pennsylvania girl’s unsteady steps lead to brain cancer diagnosis

For several weeks, Emery had seemed to have a stomach bug. Over Memorial Day weekend of 2024, her parents even took her to the local emergency room, after which she seemed better for a few weeks.

Then, at the very end of June 2024, Emery went with her dad to walk the dog. As they crossed the yard of their Pennsylvania home, it became apparent that Emery – 3 ½ years old at the time – wasn’t walking a straight line. Within days, she could not navigate the house without relying on walls and furniture for balance.

Emery’s pediatrician ordered an MRI, which revealed a mass in her brain. She underwent emergency surgery close to home and was referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® in Memphis, Tennessee, where she began treatment for a type of brain cancer called medulloblastoma. Her parents were familiar with St. Jude, but said Emery’s mom Julie, they had no idea how big it is, how many children it serves and how much St. Jude really does.

Prior to her surgery, Emery was her family’s “Rainbow Girl.” She was bubbly, outgoing, all about rainbows and unicorns and pink and purple. But embarking on life as a cancer patient, she became very guarded and shy.

Through her time at St. Jude, having her twin brother near was a big help to her, as was being able to see the same nurses and doctors throughout her treatment. “I would highly recommend St. Jude if someone ever finds themselves in these shoes,” said her mom. “St. Jude is definitely the best place to be for the situation we are in.”

So far, 2025 has been a year of milestones for Emery. In January, she became a big sister, a role she absolutely loves. In February, she celebrated her No More Chemo party at St. Jude, marking the end of her treatment.

Now she’s back at home in Pennsylvania, said her mom. “She is back to talking a blue streak, she is so happy again. She is back to being our little Rainbow Girl.”