Abby Meagher, a seven-year-old girl with ataxic cerebral palsy, is carving out a unique space for herself in the realms of adaptive sports and modelling. With a robust and inspiring spirit, Abby is not merely navigating her condition but thriving, much to the delight of her mother, Emily Meagher, who has been instrumental in guiding her journey.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Cerebral-Palsy-tout-2-091026-34def7deb01c4c74a46849feb3605ee5.jpg)
Emily, now 30, became a mother at the tender age of 17. As she reflects on her early years of motherhood, she recalls the challenges that accompanied Abby’s diagnosis of ataxic cerebral palsy when she was just two years old. Following the diagnosis, Emily witnessed Abby grapple with various physical therapies aimed at helping her develop her motor skills. While this was a pivotal period for both mother and daughter, Emily soon realised that she required support herself—not just for Abby, but for her own growth as a parent.
To navigate the complexities of raising a child with a disability, Emily turned to social media for guidance and companionship. By engaging with online communities through hashtags focused on cerebral palsy, she connected with other families who shared similar experiences. Initially, her posts served as updates for friends and family, but they quickly transformed into a platform for broader engagement and support.
A significant turning point came when Emily interacted with another family whose daughter faced similar challenges. Their relationship blossomed, ultimately leading to a collaborative modelling opportunity. When Abby had the chance to join the family during a photoshoot for Target in New York City, Emily understood the potential this could hold for her daughter. Their shared experiences and stories led Emily to seek connections within the modelling industry, resulting in Abby’s first job for a local children’s hospital shortly thereafter.
As luck would have it, Abby’s modelling career took off. She began to secure a series of campaigns, including high-profile advertisements for retailers like Target, Walmart, Costco, and TJ Maxx. Emily noted that her involvement in these projects sometimes necessitated travelling from their home in Delaware to New York City as frequently as three times a week, which they gladly accommodated for the opportunities presented.
While Abby enjoys the creative process on set and the camaraderie with other child models, she admits to feeling a flutter of nerves upon seeing her image in store displays. In contrast, Emily delights in spotting these advertisements, often turning the find into a fun outing where Abby gets to choose a toy.
Emily’s pride is rooted not solely in Abby’s achievements but in the broader impact of her visibility. She hopes that Abby’s representation in these public spaces will foster self-acceptance for other children with disabilities, reinforcing the notion that they too can be seen and celebrated. “I want her to be comfortable showing up exactly as she is,” Emily emphasises.
Their home is structured to empower Abby’s independence, from her use of crutches and a wheelchair to facilitate mobility, to thoughtfully arranged spaces that ensure she can navigate them safely. Emily’s commitment to fostering Abby’s autonomy extends beyond home life; they’ve chosen to homeschool her, adapting their educational framework to better accommodate her needs while allowing for ample sports and social activities.
Abby’s spirited pursuit of adaptive sports—ranging from rock climbing to skiing and even surfing—is not just about physical activity; it’s about cultivating confidence and a sense of belonging. During a recent climbing session, Abby shocked her instructor by reaching the summit without encouragement, demonstrating her resolve and resilience.
The importance of creating an enabling environment is paramount for Emily. She strives to have Abby surrounded by communities that celebrate her individuality, providing inclusive spaces free from the need for explanation or apology regarding her disabilities. This ethos extends to every aspect of Abby’s life, including her modelling work, which Emily sees as a vehicle for expression rather than a lifelong obligation.
Ultimately, Emily is committed to supporting Abby as she carves her own path. Her hope is that Abby grows into a confident young woman who decides what she wishes to pursue, modelling or otherwise. “I am just so proud of her, honestly, for her existence,” she states, underscoring a broader message about the richness of life beyond diagnoses.
As Emily expresses, “There is so much more beyond the diagnosis,” highlighting the vast potential for joy and adventure that awaits those willing to embrace their unique journeys. Through their story, both mother and daughter shine a light on the possibilities for children with disabilities, inspiring a legacy of hope and empowerment.