Toy Drive Keeps Infant's Memory Alive, Brings Cheer to Sick Kids

Westyn Robert Genens' time here was short, but the Joliet infant continues to touch lives.

Born with congenital heart defects, Westyn was just three months old when he died in August 2007. His mom and dad, Sarah and Jeff Genens of Joliet, have kept his legacy alive by making sure hospitalized kids have a merry Christmas.

The first Christmas after losing their son, Sarah and Jeff launched the Westyn's Wish toy drive, collecting new toys for all ages. Each year, donations are distributed to children spending the holidays at Advocate Children's Hospital (formerly Hope Children's Hospital) in Oak Lawn.

“Our first Christmas without him, we just wanted to do something,” Sarah told Patch last year. “There are so many kids there. We just want them to be happy on Christmas.”

This year, the family — including Westyn's little sister, Ivy, 5 — are looking to collect more toys than ever.

"This year, our goal is 1,500 toys," Sarah said. "Last year we did 1,2000 and that was our highest year."

Toys can be for ages 0-18 but must be new. Donations can be dropped off at the following locations: 

Plainfield

• Chikara Martial Arts Academy, 24316 W 143rd St.
• Elite Rehabilitation, 15412 S. Route 59 #118
• Interstate Batteries, 11912 S. Spaulding School Dr.
• Versed Salon, 11914 S. Route 59 Suite 110

Joliet

• Heartland Blood Center, 121 Springfield Ave.
• Karges Realty, 208 N. Larkin Ave.
• Marino Truck and Equipment Repair, 604 Elm Ct.
• Mama’s Restaurant, 700 Ruby St.
• Moonstep Productions, 1523 Plainfield Rd., suite 5
• Rick’s RV Centr 4360 W. Jefferson St
• Rockzorz Salon & Spa, 3021 Theodore St.

Romeoville

• Planet Chiropractic, 432 N. Weber Rd.

Shorewood

• Brandolino’s Encore Music 700 W. Jefferson St.

Tinley Park

• Massage Envy 7270 W. 191st St.