Ezequiel "Zeke" R.
Nevada

5 Years Old

Diagnosis:  PTEN Disorder 


Theme - Firetrucks/Firefighters (special request for a female firefighter)

 Due Date: February 15, 2026
Zeke's Journey 

From the very beginning, Ezequiel "Zeke" showed us that he would walk a path uniquely his own. As an infant, he was full of warmth and curiosity, but we began to notice early developmental delays—little milestones that came just a bit later than expected. After many doctor visits, evaluations, and long days of uncertainty, we finally received an answer: Zeke was born with a PTEN mutation, a rare genetic condition that can affect growth, development, and learning. Hearing those words was overwhelming, but having a name for what he was facing helped us take the first steps toward understanding and supporting him.

As Zeke grew, so did our understanding of PTEN. The condition can cause developmental delays, differences in muscle tone, and challenges with speech and coordination—all things he works incredibly hard to overcome each day. Therapies became part of our weekly routine, and while the journey has not been easy, Zeke has shown strength and resilience far beyond his years. Every new skill, every word, and every step forward has felt like a victory worth celebrating.

One of the most important parts of managing PTEN is awareness of long-term health considerations. PTEN plays a role in how cells grow, which means that people with a PTEN mutation have a higher-than-usual risk for developing certain types of cancers over their lifetime. For Zeke, this means regular medical check-ins and screenings so his doctors can keep a close eye on his health. Although this can feel scary at times, it also gives us comfort—his care team is incredibly dedicated, and early monitoring is one of the best ways to keep him safe. Today, Zeke continues to thrive with the love, support, and determination that surround him. His smile, courage, and spirit brighten every room, and he inspires us daily with the way he faces the world.


Below is a list of patterns that have been chosen for this quilt.
Please check this list for duplications before signing up.
Link to sign-up form is at the bottom of the list.
Accepting 7 signups (we will use AC squares that fit the theme)
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1. Any Child Square

2. Any Child Square

3.  Any Child Square

4. Any Child Square

5. Any Child Square

Please see scans of the Any Child Squares on Fotki to avoid choosing duplicate patterns. 

6. Jennifer P - SC - Fire Department Emblem. https://www.everythingcrossstitch.com/fire-dept-emblem-mrp-p41086.aspx?k2=e1

7. Harriet S - NJ - Paw Patrol Fire Fighter / https://www.etsy.com/listing/1472190285/marshall-cross-stitch-pattern-pdf?ref=search_recently_viewed-1&dd=1&logging_key=4128f3fe89eb7d0f9b27ff5fb980670fd9471189%3A1472190285

8. Sarah - WY - 

9. Vicki R - CT - I love boys toys / Fireman

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