Emily B is opening up about her daughter’s autism diagnosis and life with PHACE syndrome, sharing a deeply personal update about her five-year-old daughter Journey, and why she chose to keep that part of her life private until now.
The reality star and stylist revealed in an Instagram post on April 2 that Journey is autistic, nonverbal, and lives with sensory processing challenges. She also shared that her daughter was born with PHACE syndrome, a rare congenital condition that affects multiple systems in the body.
“For a long time, I kept this part of my life private… publicly,” Emily B wrote. She explained that her decision was not rooted in shame, but in a desire to protect something she described as sacred. “Not because I was ashamed. Not because I didn’t love her loudly. But because some Journeys feel sacred.”
Emily B described how her daughter experiences the world differently and reflected on the personal impact of raising her. She wrote that the journey has brought moments of fear, learning, and growth, pushing her to become stronger in ways she had not anticipated.
The announcement was shared on World Autism Day, a choice Emily B said was intentional as she aims to bring awareness to the autism community. She emphasized the importance of visibility, noting that her daughter’s story deserves to be seen and understood.
Journey, whom Emily B shares with Fabolous, has inspired more than just a personal transformation. Emily B founded an organization called A Special Journey, which supports children living with autism and complex medical diagnoses. Fabolous acknowledged their daughter in the comments, writing “A Special Journey,” a nod to both his child and the initiative.
PHACE syndrome, according to the Cleveland Clinic, is a rare condition that can affect the brain, heart, arteries, and eyes. It is often identified by the presence of hemangiomas, which are benign growths made up of blood vessels, typically appearing on a child’s face or neck. While the condition can be life-threatening in severe cases, it can be managed with proper treatment.
