Emily Simpson Reveals Son Luke Had Laser Brain Surgery
Emily Simpson is giving fans an update on her son Luke’s health journey, which included a laser brain procedure.
“He did [undergo his procedure],” Emily, 49, exclusively told Us Weekly on Saturday, November 15, while attending BravoCon 2025 in Las Vegas. “I didn’t see much of a difference, so we’re still exploring other options and collaborating with a specialist, and we’re going to try out different approaches.”
Emily — who is the mother of Luke, 10, with husband Shane Simpson — explained that the aim of the laser procedure is “to reduce the swelling in the brain.” (They also have two other children, Annabelle, 12, and Keller, 10.)
“This needs to be an ongoing process,” Emily remarked regarding her son’s treatment. “He’s done a few rounds, but it hasn’t made a significant impact. So the concern is whether we should continue this route or explore other options.”
Through it all, Emily mentioned that she has been receiving immense support from mothers nationwide.
“The mothers out there are amazing,” Emily expressed. “I receive so many DMs filled with recommendations and personal stories, so thank you to all the moms.”
Earlier this month, Emily disclosed that Luke would be undergoing the laser procedure after being diagnosed with pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders. (According to the Cleveland Clinic, PANDAS is a “collection of conditions believed to affect certain children following strep infections.”)
“Yes, he is set to have a laser treatment on his brain,” Emily informed Andy Cohen during the recent Real Housewives of Orange County reunion, as reported by People.
She added, “It aims to reduce the swelling. He wanted to know if the laser would hurt, and I reassured him, ‘No, it won’t hurt.’ He needs to go for five consecutive days for about three hours each time, and it should help with the swelling.”
Emily has openly discussed her son’s ongoing health challenges. In July, the The Real Housewives of Orange County premiere disclosed Luke’s diagnosis of avoidant restrictive food intake disorder. (The Mayo Clinic defines ARFID as an eating disorder prevalent among children and young adolescents, characterized by extreme picky eating and a noticeable lack of interest in food that worsens over time.)
“Luke has always been discerning with food, but in the past year, it’s reached a point where he hardly eats,” Emily confided in a confessional. “He doesn’t eat anything and yet he’s still hungry. I worry he’s not getting the nutrition he needs. I’m concerned he’ll be the odd kid at school who doesn’t eat, and I fear he’ll be ridiculed. I just want my child to be happy. That’s all.”
In an October episode of the Bravo series, Emily explained that a specialist has been assisting the family with resources and support for Luke.
“Luke’s diagnosis is quite complex. He experiences anxiety, ADHD, OCD, along with a learning disability and dyslexia; he requires various forms of support,” she shared during a confessional. “He is exceptionally bright in certain areas, yet he’s in the 4th grade, and I didn’t realize he could read? It’s quite heartbreaking.”
The Real Housewives of Orange County airs on Bravo Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET. You can stream past episodes anytime on Peacock.
