Family reports losing home amid ongoing battle for baby Westin’s health
- Jacob Dufour | Publisher
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
For more than a year, Paige Monroe has been doing everything she can to keep her young son, Westin, healthy and smiling through a battle few could imagine. Westin was diagnosed with a severe heart condition after a viral infection left his heart functioning at just 17 percent, causing lasting damage to his other organs.
Today, Monroe says there’s been encouraging progress and devastating setbacks.
“Westin’s heart function is improving,” said Monroe. “But his kidneys keep getting dried out from all the diuretics. He’s singing now too. He’s so happy all the time.”
Despite that bit of hope, Monroe says her family’s situation has taken a heartbreaking turn.
“We’ve lost our home,” she said. “I honestly don’t know what to do at this point.”
Monroe explained that her father has offered a piece of land where the family can live, but they need help getting a small home set up on the property.
“I need to get a little mini home set up on the property for us to stay in,” Monroe said. “We’d have to insulate it and add drywall and wiring and all of that. We’re just completely broke right now... his (second) birthday was on October 9, and we have been so broke that we couldn't even do anything for his birthday.”
She added that she may seek assistance from organizations like the Salvation Army but isn’t sure what options are available.
Monroe has continued to share her family’s story through a GoFundMe campaign launched in April of 2025 to help with ongoing medical and living expenses. The fundraiser’s goal is $75,000 — but as of this week, it remains under $4,000, roughly five percent of the goal.
The family’s challenges began when Westin’s heart was severely weakened by a viral infection, which left his heart enlarged and affected his liver, kidneys, and lungs. He’s been on multiple medications since, including blood thinners and heart medicines that require special compounding. The cost of those prescriptions can reach several hundred dollars per refill, and some are not covered by insurance.
Because of his fragile condition, even minor bumps or falls can be dangerous. “He has to be watched like a hawk,” Monroe said in a previous interview.
Doctors have told the family that Westin may eventually need a heart pump or transplant by the time he turns five.
Those wishing to support Westin's family can find their GoFundMe page here.
