When Lucille Esler steps onto a stage as Miss America’s Teen New York, she brings more than confidence, determination, and poise. She carries the experiences of her family, the experiences that have shaped her passion for advocacy and her commitment to creating a more inclusive world for people with autism and developmental disabilities.
At just 16 years old, Lucille has spent the last three years competing in pageants, building her public speaking skills, and developing a platform focused on supporting individuals and families affected by autism. Her journey began through dance programs in Fulton County and led her to her first pageant in the Finger Lakes region, where she captured a title and discovered a new way to make an impact.
But long before the crowns and competitions, Lucille’s greatest inspiration was much closer to home: her younger brother, Theodore “Teddy” Esler.
Teddy inspired Lucille’s community service initiative, “Life With Theodorable: Supporting Autistic Individuals & Their Families.” Through the initiative, Lucille works to increase awareness, foster inclusion, and provide resources for individuals with autism and the families who support them. Her experiences growing up alongside Teddy gave her a firsthand understanding of both the challenges and triumphs that families often experience, motivating her to turn her passion into advocacy.
Through “Life With Theodorable,” Lucille has delivered presentations to school districts throughout New York, created an online resource that supports individuals and families across the United States, and organized sensory-friendly experiences at local softball games. Proceeds from those events help fund a scholarship for graduating seniors pursuing careers in special education.
At the heart of every presentation, event, and conversation is Teddy.
Teddy, 11, is a student and resident at The School at Springbrook, where he has lived since April 2026. For the Esler family, finding the right support for Teddy was one of the most important decisions they would ever make.
“As a parent, you evolve as your child grows,” said Teddy and Lucille’s mother, Erin Esler. “You’re learning as you go, hoping it goes well, but it does come with challenges.”
Like many families navigating disability services, the Eslers wanted a place where Teddy could receive the support he needed while remaining connected to the people and community he loves. Springbrook provided that opportunity.
Teddy lives at Scriven House on Springbrook’s Main Campus, a setting that allows him to receive individualized support while continuing to grow in his independence. For Erin, one of the greatest comforts has been the consistent communication from staff and knowing her son is cared for by people who genuinely know and love him.
One of the factors that made Springbrook especially meaningful for the family was its location. Being able to keep Teddy close to home meant he could receive the support he needed without having to leave New York State and the community he knows.
“I am thankful Teddy has a place where he can be supported and grow,” Erin said. “I am excited to continue watching his growth. We are continuously grateful to have a place like Springbrook that ensures Teddy is cared for and loved as he would be at home.”
The family’s gratitude extends beyond Teddy’s daily care. Since arriving at Springbrook, Teddy has made meaningful progress in areas that once felt challenging. Staff have worked closely with him to support his unique dietary needs, gradually introducing new foods and expanding his diet. The family has also received encouraging feedback regarding Teddy’s growth within the community and positive behavioral developments.
“There are many misconceptions about people with autism,” Lucille explained. “It’s a broad spectrum, and everyone expresses themselves differently.”
Teddy is a perfect example. Although he does not communicate verbally, he communicates in countless other ways. Through eye contact, gestures, and his interactions with those around him, he expresses himself clearly to the people who know him best.
For Lucille, some of her favorite memories aren’t tied to major accomplishments or special events. They’re the simple moments like vacationing together in Maine, spending time at the beach, watching movies, or simply relaxing together at home.
Those moments have taught her lessons that extend far beyond advocacy.
“Any milestone is a major milestone,” she shared.
That perspective has influenced how she celebrates Teddy’s successes and how she encourages others to view people with autism. Progress looks different for everyone, and every achievement deserves recognition.
Erin sees those lessons reflected not only in Lucille, but throughout her family. Over the years, both Lucille and her other brother have been recognized for their empathy, kindness, and ability to include others, qualities she believes have been strengthened by growing up alongside Teddy.
Today, as Lucille balances the responsibilities of being Miss America’s Teen New York with school, travel, appearances, and community service, she continues to advocate for greater understanding and acceptance. Looking ahead, she hopes to attend the University of Alabama, pursue a career as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, remain involved within the Miss America organization, and perhaps even audition for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Yet among all of her ambitions, one goal remains refreshingly simple. She wants to take another vacation with Teddy.
For the Esler family, those moments together are made possible because Teddy has a place where he is supported, encouraged, and empowered to grow.
“I hope that Springbrook continues to expand and offer services and programs to families like us,” Erin said. “It can be overwhelming when you don’t feel like you can find the right support for your loved one. We are thankful we did.”
Through “Life With Theodorable,” Lucille works to ensure families know they are not alone. The Esler family’s experience at Springbrook has shown them what is possible when the right support system is a place where people with disabilities are empowered to grow, families are welcomed as partners, and every achievement is celebrated.
For Teddy, that support has meant greater independence, new opportunities, and a community that believes in him. For his family, it has provided peace of mind, hope, and the reassurance that their son and brother is cared for and loved. For families across New York State, that is the difference Springbrook strives to make every day by providing support not only for the individual, but for the entire family. Because when one person is supported, an entire family can thrive.
Written by: Stephanie Curnalia, Marketing Associate
