Westley's Story

Image Captured by Captivating Photography by Sarah West

Meet this beautiful boy Westley. The perfect day for this Tiny Light would be using his play mat and gazing at the toys hanging from it. One of his best pals, a lab Mylie, would entertain him by walking around or lying down in front of him. Then this five month old would end the day with a warm bubble bath before bed.

While in utero, Westley's mom Anita was told her son had a heart defect - transposition of the great arteries. This meant the two major vessels that carry blood away from the heart were switched, so only half his blood was getting oxygenated. Delivery day was especially difficult because Westley had to be immediately whisked over to ICU. "He was lifted up for me to see as soon as he was born, and quickly brought in before the doctors left to take him to Sick Kids, but I didn't get to really see or meet him until he was 27 hours old."

Behind that sweet face hides the will and strength of a brave little fighter. Westley wasn't even a week old when he underwent heart surgery. He recovered so well, he got to go home after just five days. Westley's doctors are pleased with his progress and he should only require annual checkups. Anita's hope is her Tiny Light grows into a strong man who follows his passions.

Story written by Tara Anderson