Striving For Success While Staying Positive
Westley was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at age seven. To some, this may seem like a devastating condition, but the diagnosis hasn’t stopped Westley and his mother Jessica from enjoying life, maintaining a positive attitude, and doing things as a family that bring them joy.
“Wake up every day with a smile on your face and don’t look at the negatives,” Westley says.
Westley is a Virginia native who just turned 16. He’s an older brother and a leader at school and at home.
When Westley was in elementary school, he would ask his mother, Jessica, why he couldn’t run and jump like his friends. Now, at 16, Westley is a vibrant, inquisitive teen with a positive outlook on life.
“Even though I look different, I’m still a normal human being,” Westley says.
“And a genuinely nice person,” Jessica adds.
And an avid cook. Westley is the family chef.
“My favorite thing is to cook,” Westley says. “I love steak and crab. I make crab cakes a lot.”
He’s also a big fan of animals.
“We have two black labs named Bear and Uli, and a cat named Gryndoor,” Westley says. “They get along pretty well.”
Westley enjoys spending time with his aide, younger brother, and mom, taking trips to the park and painting. “We paint anything — just what we see,” he says.
Westley’s day pretty much looks like everyone else’s. He wakes up in the morning and heads to school.
“I love history — that’s probably my favorite subject,” Westley says.
Not only did Westley finish his first year of high school with a 3.8 GPA, but he also received a “Golden Spear Award,” which recognizes kids who are all-around good students. Westley’s teacher says he got the award because he’s a good student, he’s diligent and does his work, and he’s always willing to help lead a team and motivate a group.
A working mom with two kids, Jessica says it can be hard to balance daily life. With support from TAF’s Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Financial Assistance Program, she has been able to pay for Westley’s treatment costs without compromising on other financial decisions — like not having to cancel a family trip.
Living with a rare and serious condition can take a toll on one’s emotions and outlook on life. Westley has harnessed what others may see as challenges and channeled them into motivation for change, compassion, and resilience. Westley is known for his big heart.
“When I can do something nice for someone, that really makes me happy,” he says.
