I am walking to raise awareness and funds for the American Heart Association, in honor of my cousin's infant son, Weston Layne Williams, whose medical journey is shared below.

 

Baby Weston Layne Williams was born on November 20, 2024, weighing 5 lbs 15 oz.  Six hours after birth, Weston was rushed to UAB Hospital in Birmingham due to heart complications.  Weston had a PDA, patent ductus arteriosus, a heart defect caused by problems in the heart's development; and an AP window, a hole between the aorta and the pulmonary artery, which can lead to heart failure. 

 

Five days later, Weston was diagnosedd with a condition called DiGeorge Syndrome caused when a small part of chromosome 22 is missing.  DiGeorge Syndrome is associated with various heart abnormalities.  It represents the second most common genetic cause of congenital heart disease, and this heart disease is the leading cause of mortality from birth defects. Cardiac defects are present in approximately 75% of patients diagnosed with DiGeorge Syndrome.

 

On January 29, 2025, at 10 weeks old, Weston underwent a six-hour open heart surgery to repair his defects. Surgery went well.  During surgery, a restricted pulmonary artery was also discovered, which was limiting the blood flow to his right lung.

 

Weston's recovery poses several challenges, but thanks to Weston's numerous, devoted prayer warriors and God's grace, this little angel continues to persevere.  

 

I Walk to Save Lives. Help me reach my goal today by joining our team or donating towards our goal. Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers.