Please take time and read the story of our friend, really family, Nicole and Monny Weatherly’s son, Zayne and his journey to a strong and healthy heart.

Zayne’s Heart Journey

On June 22nd, our sweet boy Zayne was born healthy, snuggly, and oh so sleepy. We spent that first night in pure joy, soaking up every moment with his chunky little face.

But the next day, we noticed something wasn’t right. Zayne seemed too sleepy, and his color kept turning blue. A cardiologist quickly examined him, and we learned the heartbreaking news: Zayne had severe aortic stenosis and a faulty ventricular valve. He was immediately life-flighted to OU Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City, where doctors performed his first heart procedure using a catheter to open the valve and allow blood to flow.

This bought him time to grow stronger. At just two weeks old, Zayne underwent his first open-heart surgery, where surgeons reshaped his valve and treated the stenosis. At 30 days old, he was able to come home and meet his big sisters.

Since then, Zayne has grown into the funniest, most energetic little boy. If not for his scar, you’d never know the challenges he has faced. He runs, wrestles, keeps up with his sisters, and fills every quiet moment with laughter and his favorite phrase: “chicken jockey.”

Now, at four years old, it’s time for the next step in his journey. Zayne’s valve needs to be replaced with an artificial one. His surgery is scheduled for October 23rd, and doctors expect him to remain in the hospital for 10–14 days. Afterward, he’ll need six weeks at home to heal as his sternum recovers.

This will be another open-heart surgery, but it’s one that will restore his heart’s function and allow him to keep living life to the fullest. We have complete trust in his surgical team and the incredible staff at OU Children’s Hospital, who have been with us every step of the way.

Zayne is brave, joyful, and full of life—and we are so grateful for the love, prayers, and support of those who are walking alongside us in this journey.

Their needs will include support while Nicole is off work caring for Zayne for 6+ weeks, meals, travel and medical expenses.