A young woman checked into a California rehabilitation center hoping to overcome addiction and start a new chapter of her life.
Instead, her family says everything changed forever.
Former adult film performer Emily Willis, whose legal name is Litzy Lara Banuelos, has been awarded a court-approved $3 million settlement after suffering a catastrophic brain injury during a stay at a Malibu rehabilitation facility in 2024. Because of the severity of her condition, a Los Angeles judge approved the agreement on her behalf.
A Life-Changing Medical Emergency
According to court records, Banuelos entered Summit Malibu seeking treatment for ketamine addiction.
During her stay, she suffered a medical emergency that caused an anoxic brain injury, meaning her brain was deprived of oxygen. The injury left her with permanent physical and cognitive disabilities.
Her attorney told the court that she is now profoundly incapacitated, unable to move independently and unable to manage her own affairs, which is why judicial approval of the settlement was required.
The Lawsuit
The lawsuit was filed by Banuelos and her mother, Yesenia Lara Cooper.
They alleged that Summit Malibu failed to provide appropriate medical care and claimed negligence, abandonment, and reckless conduct contributed to the devastating outcome. The family argued that earlier medical intervention could have changed what happened.
The Rehab Center’s Response
Summit Malibu denied any wrongdoing.
In court filings, the rehabilitation center argued that Banuelos repeatedly refused medical advice, declined prescribed medications, and rejected recommendations to seek treatment at an urgent care center or hospital. The facility also maintained that its staff monitored her and did not have the legal authority to force her to accept outside medical treatment.
Importantly, the settlement does not constitute an admission of liability by the rehab center. The agreement resolves the civil dispute without the court determining that the facility was negligent.
Why the Judge Had to Approve the Settlement
Unlike many civil settlements, this agreement required judicial approval because Banuelos is legally unable to make decisions for herself.
After reviewing the proposed settlement, a Los Angeles judge approved the $3 million agreement on her behalf. Court filings also show that her attorneys reduced their requested legal fees before the settlement was finalized.
A Story Bigger Than the Lawsuit
Beyond the legal battle, the case has sparked wider conversations about patient safety, addiction treatment, and the responsibilities of rehabilitation facilities when caring for vulnerable patients.
Medical experts often note that rehabilitation centers face difficult situations involving patients who may refuse treatment, while families argue that facilities still have a duty to recognize life-threatening conditions and respond appropriately.
Those competing perspectives remain at the heart of this case.
What Happens Next?
The settlement brings the civil lawsuit to a close, but Banuelos’ long-term recovery remains uncertain.
According to court filings, she continues to require extensive care because of her condition. The settlement is expected to help provide financial support for her ongoing medical and personal needs.
For many people following the case, the biggest takeaway isn’t the dollar amount.
It’s the reminder that someone entered treatment hoping for a second chance—and left facing a life forever changed.
