When 8-year-old Emerson joined the Salisbury University softball team in December 2023, her family was hoping she’d find a sense of community, a space where she could cheer and be cheered for. What they didn’t expect was that one particular player would shine so brightly in Emerson’s world: Carrie Jacoby.
From their very first meeting, there was a magnetic connection. “Carrie has stood out from the very first time Emerson went to meet the team,” said Emerson’s mom, Charissa. “Emerson was just instantly drawn to Carrie and vice versa. We were just hoping to have her be able to experience being a part of a community, a place where everyone works together and cheers for each other.” And with Carrie’s lead, that is exactly what Emerson found in the Salisbury softball team.
Emerson was in the early stages of healing—physically and emotionally—after a right functional hemispherectomy and significant time away from her home, her twin, and the routine of daily life. “She was really struggling getting back into life,” Charissa said. But Carrie’s kindness came at the perfect time. In the months that followed, the bond between them blossomed into something extraordinary. “Carrie took Emerson under her wing and loved her for her,” she said. “They have been each other’s biggest fans.”
Because of Emerson, Carrie embraced everything Team IMPACT represents. She created a service spotlight video to capture how much this experience with Emerson has meant to her and the entire team. “They are not just teammates, they are family,” Charissa said, “from family dinners to holidays to spending time together when it isn’t about the sport, to birthdays, Taco Tuesdays, and helping with homework.”
Emme and Carrie’s friendship has been full of laughs, smiles, and surprises. One of Emme’s favorite moments is when Carrie surprised her at her birthday party. When Carrie surprised Emerson at her birthday party. “She made her feel like the most important child in the world,” Charissa shared.
That kind of thoughtfulness has had a lasting effect on Emerson, and both Emme and Carrie have been forever impacted by this friendship. “Emerson has learned to become more of a team player, to help pick others up when they’re down,” Charissa said. “She’s also learned that being part of a team is like being part of a big family, and she loves the camaraderie.”
The relationship is more than a match—it’s a lifeline. Carrie has become Emerson’s go-to source of encouragement. “When Emerson is sad or upset, a quick phone call, FaceTime, or even a visit from Carrie can completely turn her day around,” Charissa said. “With Emme’s unique needs, we have a lot of times we need a pep talk from Carrie.”
At Team IMPACT, we believe in the power of connection to heal, grow, and inspire. Emerson and Carrie’s friendship is proof that when teammates become family, the impact is infinite.
