Ezekiel is an adorable 2-year-old little boy who goes by Zeke. He loves his family, Buzz Lightyear, Lightning McQueen, and anything fast and “dangerous.” His parents describe him as the happiest little boy who always has a smile on his face.
Zeke was diagnosed with B-type acute lymphoblastic leukemia on October 28, 2024. He was emergency airlifted to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland and began chemotherapy on Halloween day, 2024.
Zeke stayed in Portland for a month while he endured the first phase of his treatment plan. On December 6, 2024, Zeke had surgery to install a port. The port is used to draw Zeke’s blood and administer chemotherapy, allowing nurses to avoid trying to find a vein every time.
In December, Zeke finished 14 months of Frontline chemotherapy. This included 7 rounds of intense chemotherapy, many admissions to the hospital, and weekly appointments. In January, he started the maintenance chemotherapy. This will include monthly hospital visits and chemotherapy pills administered at home. This phase will continue through February 2027, when he will complete all his medical phases and ring the cancer-free bell.
Zeke’s treatments make him susceptible to illness, so his family makes sure to practice caution with exposing him to public spaces.
This has been a scary journey, and not one that parents sign up for. However, Zeke continues to show so much courage and even does silly things to bring joy to his entire family. He and his family hope his story will inspire you to never give up, find joy in the simple things, and remember laughter is the best medicine.
Zeke will be adopted as the Sparrow to Hedrick Middle School. Hedrick students will work hard to earn money for Zeke through sponsored community service.
