Anniston, AL – In the heart of Anniston, Alabama, seven-year-old Westlynn Huff is facing a battle most children her age can’t imagine. Diagnosed with chronic bilateral developmental dysplasia of the hips (DDH), Westlynn’s journey to proper care has been marked by misdiagnoses and medical challenges. Now, as she prepares for a groundbreaking double Colonna Arthroplasty surgery in Michigan on January 22, her family is rallying the community for support.
Westlynn’s condition went undiagnosed for years, despite her parents’ repeated concerns to her pediatrician. Missteps in identifying her symptoms led to a delay in treatment, allowing her femoral heads to grow flat and improperly positioned above her pelvic sockets. It wasn’t until a passing orthopedic professional noticed her unusual gait that her parents took matters into their own hands, seeking specialists who confirmed the severity of her condition.
At four years old, the family learned she was outside the typical age range for corrective surgery, which usually occurs within the first four years of life. Determined not to give up, they sought opinions from top pediatric orthopedic hospitals, leading them to Dr. Zalts in Michigan, the only U.S. surgeon performing the complex Colonna Arthroplasty.
Westlynn will be only the second child in North America to undergo this double procedure. The surgery involves restructuring her hips to secure the femoral heads within their sockets using ligaments and tendons, providing a lasting solution that eliminates the risk of her hips dislocating again. While the procedure will delay the need for a hip replacement until her 40s, the recovery is extensive—6 to 9 months, beginning with eight weeks in a spica cast, followed by months of physical therapy.
Westlynn’s family is no stranger to service and sacrifice. Her father, a dedicated officer with the Jacksonville Police Department, and her mother are working tirelessly to ensure she receives the care she needs. The family will travel to Michigan on January 20 and remain there until February 6, staying in an Airbnb for part of the recovery. Beyond medical bills, the out-of-pocket costs are staggering: travel, specialized medical equipment like a $1,700 spica-cast-compatible car seat, and modifications to make their home wheelchair accessible.
Westlynn’s parents have taken steps to ease the burden, including selling “Westlynn’s Support Squad” T-shirts for $20, coordinating a GoFundMe campaign, and opening a dedicated account for “West Funds.” The community’s initial response has been overwhelming, with donations pouring in and prayers lifting their spirits.
“This surgery offers Westlynn the chance to live pain-free and enjoy the simple joys of childhood,” her parents share. “The outpouring of support has brought us to tears, and we’re so grateful for everyone who has prayed, donated, or bought a shirt. Knowing our little girl is surrounded by love gives us strength.”
To join Westlynn’s journey:
- Purchase a T-shirt from Freestyle Graphix in Oxford for $20.
- Donate through the family’s GoFundMe: Support Westlynn’s Rare Hip Surgery Journey.
- Offer a Wallenberg car seat or assist with other needs by contacting the family directly.
Above all, the family requests prayers for Westlynn’s successful surgery and smooth recovery. Together, they believe in the power of faith, community, and determination to help their little girl walk into a brighter, pain-free future.
