What Is Miss You Can Do It About?
The premise of Miss You Can Do It in 291 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a world where beauty contests often spotlight flawless poise, the documentary follows Abbey Curran, Miss Iowa USA 2008 and the first woman with a disability to step onto the Miss USA stage. Determined to rewrite the definition of “pageant,” Abbey channels her own resilience—living with cerebral palsy and thriving in sports, driving, and the spotlight—into a heartfelt mission: to create a space where inner strength shines brighter than any crown. The film invites viewers into the warm, bustling atmosphere of the annual Miss You Can Do It pageant, an event that gathers girls with physical and intellectual disabilities from coast to coast for one unforgettable night of celebration.
The tone is intimate and uplifting, balancing tender moments with lively energy as families arrive, set up tables of homemade treats, and share stories of perseverance. The setting feels like an oasis of fun and femininity, where bright costumes, music, and heartfelt applause replace judgment with admiration. Within this vibrant community, each participant is more than a contestant; they are ambassadors of possibility, supported by volunteers who believe that “what’s right with them” outweighs any perceived shortcomings.
Among the young hopefuls are Tierney, a five‑year‑old who zips around in a powered wheelchair, and Natasha, a fourteen‑year‑old navigating cerebral palsy and seizures alongside her sister Kenna, who lives with an intellectual disability. Their journeys intersect with those of Ali, a six‑year‑old born with spina bifida whose therapy includes horseback riding, and Teyanna, a pre‑teen whose speech challenges stem from cerebral palsy. The narrative also introduces Daleney, a quadriplegic girl yearning for independence, and Meg and her newly adopted sister Alina, both living with Down syndrome. Together, they embody the pageant’s core belief that every girl, regardless of ability, deserves a moment to shine.
What Happens in Miss You Can Do It?
The complete story of Miss You Can Do It, from the first scene to the last, in 544 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 1 cast member page.
Spoilers ahead
This documentary centers on Abbey Curran, a determined advocate whose life shifted when she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age two. Curran refuses to let her disability define her, embracing sports, slipping behind the wheel with a specialized steering setup, and pushing through every obstacle with unwavering optimism. Notably, she became the first woman with disabilities to compete in the Miss USA Pageant in 2008, turning personal grit into a public platform for empowerment.
The film shines a light on the pageant she founded, Miss You Can Do It, and the team of enthusiastic volunteers who bring it to life. It chronicles a transformative weekend where the young participants, their families, and friends come together for an oasis of fun, femininity, and celebration. The event is designed to affirm that these girls are valued for who they are inside, not just how they appear on the outside. Each contestant leaves with a special award, ensuring that no one goes home empty-handed, while the real triumph belongs to the families and friends who cheer them on from the audience.
Among the girls and families profiled are:
- Tierney, five years old, zipping around in a powered wheelchair and living with spinal muscular atrophy type II. She has never walked and will progressively lose movement in her body, yet her spirit shines throughout the weekend.
- Natasha, fourteen, born with cerebral palsy and prone to seizures, alongside her younger sister Kenna, who has intellectual disabilities. The two are described by their proud parents as part of a happy-go-lucky family.
- Ali, six, born with spina bifida, who uses therapy on a horse to help with balance and enjoys the chance to celebrate her abilities during the pageant.
- Teyanna, a smart preteen with cerebral palsy who faces speech difficulties, yet contributes creatively and energetically to the pageant experience.
- Daleney, seven, a quadriplegic with a spastic form of cerebral palsy, whose biggest frustration is independence—though she demonstrates daily patience and determination, even taking time to tie her shoelaces.
- Tiny Meg, a shy girl who shines in the presence of her brothers, and whose family has welcomed Alina, a Ukrainian girl with Down syndrome, into their home as Meg’s sister.
Miss You Can Do It stands as a tribute to the courage and resilience of these families, who openly share how the initial heartbreak of a child’s difference gradually gave way to steadfast love, patience, and a new appreciation for both the joys and challenges of raising a child with special needs. The film frames Curran’s mission not as focusing on what’s “wrong” with the girls, but on celebrating what’s right with them and the communities that support them.
I hope that my Miss You Can Do It girls leave this pageant knowing that, okay, we might fall down, or someone might stare at us, but I just did something amazing. Something that not very many people get to experience.
The documentary is crafted by Ron Davis, who directs and produces the film, with Clay Westervelt and Julie Anderson as producers; Geof Bartz, A.C.E., as editor; and directors of photography Clay Westervelt and Arlene Nelson. The original music is by Joel Goodman, with HBO involvement from supervising producer John Hoffman and executive producer Sheila Nevins.
Miss You Can Do It Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
12 key events in the order they happen, from “Abbey Curran's early drive to defy limits” to “The film's production and credits”.
- 1
Abbey Curran's early drive to defy limits
Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age two, Abbey Curran never accepted her physical limitations. She describes a lifelong resolve to pursue sports, drive a car with a modified wheel, and prove that disability does not define potential. This determination lays the groundwork for her later dream of competing publicly.
- 2
Curran aims to break barriers by competing in Miss USA
Curran's perseverance leads her to pursue the Miss USA Pageant, where she becomes the first woman with a disability to compete in 2008. The documentary frames this moment as a landmark for disabled athletes and pageant participants alike. It underscores resilience and the empowerment that comes from representation.
When:2008
- 3
Miss You Can Do It pageant is founded to celebrate inner strengths
The film introduces Miss You Can Do It as a pageant Curran founded with a team of volunteers. It becomes a weekend oasis of fun, femininity, and celebration for girls with disabilities and their families. The event emphasizes celebrating who they are inside rather than what the world sees on the outside.
Where:Miss You Can Do It weekend
- 4
Tierney's anticipatory joy and SMA Type II
Tierney, age five, gleefully zips around in a powered wheelchair as she anticipates the pageant. Her mother explains Tierney has never walked and will progressively lose movement, highlighting the gradual nature of SMA type II. The scene captures the family's hopeful energy and the program's role in celebrating small milestones.
- 5
Natasha and Kenna's family strength and resilience
Natasha, 14, was born with cerebral palsy and experiences seizures, while her younger sister Kenna has an intellectual disability. Despite these challenges, the film presents them as a happy-go-lucky family, supported by parents who celebrate every achievement. The girls’ presence at the pageant underscores inclusion and shared joy.
- 6
Ali's balance work through therapy on a horse
Six-year-old Ali has spina bifida, which has paralyzed her lower body. The film shows her physical therapy sessions on a horse, a therapy that helps with balance and motor control. The scene highlights creative therapies enabling mobility and confidence.
- 7
Teyanna's home-raised independence and CP
Teyanna, a smart preteen with cerebral palsy, shows determination despite speech difficulty. Her mother recounts that a nurse suggested institutionalization, but they chose to raise her at home. The film presents Teyanna's creativity and resilience as central to the community's spirit.
- 8
Daleney's quest for independence and the challenge of coordination
Seven-year-old Daleney is a quadriplegic with a spastic form of cerebral palsy, leading to significant muscle tone and crossing of limbs midline while walking. Her parents describe a persistent frustration with independence, evidenced by a 15-minute struggle to tie her shoelaces. Yet she remains cheerful and engaged during the weekend.
- 9
Tiny Meg and Alina's family expansion and adoption
Tiny Meg is shy except around her brothers, and her parents adopt Alina from Ukraine to give Meg a sisterly connection. Both Meg and Alina have Down syndrome, weaving into the story of family love and inclusion. Their experiences illustrate the broad spectrum of disability celebrated by the pageant.
- 10
The pageant as a celebration of families and inner strength
Miss You Can Do It celebrates not just the girls, but the families who support them. Parents and families share how heartbreak at learning their child was different transformed into patient love and newfound appreciation for everyday joys. The pageant's philosophy is summarized by Curran and volunteer Jan Selman.
- 11
Curran's closing message: resilience and achievement
Curran articulates the pageant's philosophy, hoping the girls leave with the belief that they can rise above stares and setbacks. She states, 'we might fall down, or someone might stare at us, but I just did something amazing,' reinforcing a message of perseverance and pride.
- 12
The film's production and credits
The documentary is directed and produced by Ron Davis, with producers Clay Westervelt and Julie Anderson, and editor Geof Bartz, A.C.E. It situates Miss You Can Do It within Davis's body of work, including his earlier award-winning projects like Pageant. The film's credits also note the contributions of directors of photography and composer Joel Goodman.
Who Are the Main Characters in Miss You Can Do It?
9 characters, among them Abbey Curran, Tierney and Natasha: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 1 of them link to the actor’s page.
- AC
Abbey Curran
Played by Abbey Curran
Founder of the Miss You Can Do It pageant and a trailblazer who became the first woman with disabilities to compete in Miss USA in 2008. The film portrays her leadership, resilience, and commitment to celebrating participants for who they are inside. She works with volunteers to create a sustaining, hopeful environment where every girl is valued. Her mission is to help others see their own potential and pursue their dreams despite challenges.
- 💡 Visionary
- 🎗️ Leader
- 🧭 Mentor
- T
Tierney
Five-year-old Tierney zips around in a powered wheelchair, facing spinal muscular atrophy type II with a gradual loss of movement. She approaches the pageant with joyful anticipation, embodying resilience and a brave outlook toward her health journey. Her story highlights the everyday courage of young children living with mobility challenges. The family’s support underscores the pageant’s emphasis on love and encouragement.
- 🦽 Determination
- 💖 Courage
- 👨👩👧 Family love
- N
Natasha
Natasha, 14, was born with cerebral palsy and experiences seizures, yet remains a spirited participant in the pageant. Her family is integral to her journey, reflecting a resilient, hopeful dynamic. The documentary shows how she navigates daily barriers while engaging in the celebration and community support. Natasha’s story underscores perseverance and the power of familial encouragement.
- 🧠 Resilience
- 💫 Hope
- 🩺 Awareness
- K
Kenna
Kenna, Natasha’s younger sister, has intellectual disabilities, and her family’s pride and joy are celebrated on screen. Her inclusion in the pageant demonstrates the importance of sisterly support and a loving home environment. Kenna’s presence highlights the broader inclusive scope of the event and the positive impact of family involvement.
- 🧠 Intellectual Disabilities
- 👨👩👧 Family support
- A
Ali
Six-year-old Ali was born with spina bifida, affecting lower-body mobility and balance. She participates in therapies, including a horse-assisted activity that aids balance, reflecting the pageant’s emphasis on adaptive approaches to development. Ali’s story illustrates how early intervention and supportive care help children reach new milestones.
- 🦺 Mobility
- ✨ Determination
- 🌟 Hope
- T
Teyanna
Teyanna is a smart preteen who has cerebral palsy and speech difficulties. Her mother recalls the brave decision to raise her at home rather than institutionalize her, emphasizing a family-centered approach. Teyanna’s journey highlights creativity, persistence, and the importance of communication in the face of challenges.
- 🗣️ Speech
- 🏠 Family-centered
- 💡 Creativity
- D
Daleney
Seven-year-old Daleney is a quadriplegic with a spastic form of cerebral palsy, which affects her muscle tone and movement. Her parents emphasize independence, even as small tasks like tying shoelaces take time. Daleney’s story reinforces patience, perseverance, and a spirit of self-reliance.
- 🧷 Independence
- 🫶 Patience
- 👟 Determination
- M
Meg
Meg is shy and reserved, yet she finds connection and confidence within the pageant environment. Her bond with her brothers and the family’s embrace play a key role in her growth. The narrative shows how a supportive family can help a quiet child reveal inner strengths and joy.
- 🌟 Quiet strength
- 👪 Family
- 🎈 Growth
- A
Alina
Alina, Meg’s sister from Ukraine, was adopted into the family and also has Down syndrome. Their shared experiences deepen the sense of family and belonging at the pageant. Alina’s presence reinforces themes of inclusion, cross-cultural connection, and mutual support among siblings.
- 🌍 Global family
- 🟰 Down syndrome awareness
- 👭 Sibling bond
Where and When Is Miss You Can Do It Set?
Miss You Can Do It is set in United States (2000s). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
2000s
The events unfold during the late 2000s, anchored by Abbey Curran’s high-profile Miss USA journey in 2008 and the ongoing Miss You Can Do It pageant. The film follows a specific weekend that gathers families, volunteers, and participants for celebration and growth. It reflects the era’s growing visibility and advocacy for disability empowerment.
Where
United States
The documentary centers on a U.S.-based pageant weekend founded by Abbey Curran, bringing together girls with disabilities and their families. It frames a supportive, celebratory environment where participants are recognized for their strengths beyond appearance. The setting emphasizes community, mentorship, and shared joy during a dedicated weekend.
- 🎪 Pageant setting
- 🎗️ Disability empowerment
- ☀️ Community weekend
What Are the Themes of Miss You Can Do It?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Empowerment, Inclusion and Achievement.
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01
Empowerment
Empowerment sits at the core of the film, showing how girls with disabilities gain confidence through participation, practice, and public recognition. The pageant provides a platform for runners to showcase inner strengths and resilience. Abbey Curran’s leadership models self-advocacy and perseverance, inspiring both participants and families. The documentary demonstrates that empowerment arises from communal support and personal courage.
-
02
Inclusion
Inclusion is presented as a community value that welcomes diverse abilities. The event unites girls with different disabilities, their siblings, and volunteers in a shared space of celebration. The film emphasizes that belonging and acceptance can redefine norms and expectations. It contrasts stigma with a warm, inclusive atmosphere during the weekend.
-
03
Achievement
Achievement is framed as personal milestones and everyday triumphs rather than just crowns. The narrative highlights small victories—learning, participating, and sharing experiences—as well as larger milestones like Abbey’s own pageant journey. Families and supporters are portrayed as the real winners, forging confidence that lasts beyond the event. The pageant becomes a lasting source of pride and motivation for all involved.
What Kind of Film Is Miss You Can Do It?
Hopeful in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Low
- Ending
- Happy
An uplifting and heartwarming documentary that follows a supportive community as they celebrate the abilities and inner beauty of young girls with disabilities, creating a feel-good and inspirational viewing experience.
- uplifting
- inspirational
- heartwarming
- supportive
- celebratory
- resilient
- disability advocacy
- documentary
- pageant
- empowerment
Quiz
How well do you remember Miss You Can Do It? Test yourself on the story.
