Emily Willis, the adult film star whose real name is Litzy Lara Banuelos, was left with catastrophic brain damage after suffering a cardiac arrest in 2024. Her mother, Yesenia Cooper, has now provided an update on her recovery, saying she understands 80% of what is happening around her and has begun watching TV and films in bed.
Recovery progress and communication
In a discussion with TMZ, Yesenia said Emily remains non-verbal but can communicate with her. She allegedly uses her eyes and shakes her head. Yesenia also stated that Emily is aware of her surroundings and comprehends about 80% of what is happening around her.
Yesenia provided further details on Emily's mobility, following earlier reports that she was confined to bed. She told TMZ that Emily's recovery is gradual but she has begun to relearn how to walk. Emily, who still requires assistance with eating, can sleep independently and has resumed watching films and TV programmes.
Background of the incident
On January 27, 2024, Emily was admitted to Summit Malibu, an upmarket rehabilitation centre in California, attempting to overcome a ketamine addiction. Her relatives insist she arrived drug-free and was completely dedicated to transforming her life. However, just eight days later on February 4, a nurse practitioner found Emily unresponsive in her room.
Emergency services were summoned and CPR was administered straight away. It remains uncertain how long she had been in that condition before being discovered. When paramedics reached the scene, they carried out intensive resuscitation attempts for up to 40 minutes before her heart started beating once more.
Legal settlement
These updates follow reports that Emily's family secured a $3 million settlement after suing the facility, alleging they failed to adequately care for Emily while she was receiving treatment for ketamine addiction at Summit Malibu earlier that year. The defendants denied any wrongdoing and did not accept liability in the settlement.
