Emily was diagnosed with a tumour in her brainstem when she was 5 years old. Since her diagnosis, she has been through multiple brain surgeries and chemotherapies. Through all of her treatments, side effects, she has found a passion for swimming and athletics. The brain tumour, surgeries and treatment have left her with a physical disability. She went through the process to be formally classified as a para-athlete in 2024 and 2025 and is classified as an S9 swimmer and T/F 38 athlete.

Emily has the long-term dream of qualifying for the Paralympics and representing Australia. The first step on this pathway has been qualifying to compete at the Australian School Sport Championships for swimming and track and field.