Battling a disease as awful as cancer is hard enough without being separated from your loved ones. That’s what makes Zeke Puig of Phenix, Virginia, such a brave little boy.
The 6-year-old was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in February, just before the novel coronavirus pandemic began. Since March, he’s spent a total of 147 days in the hospital – and away from his three siblings. But he’s still smiling!
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, Zeke is only able to see his parents, John and Danielle, while undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments in the hospital. He misses his brothers, Elijah and Micah, and sister, Noelle, but he’s still the happy boy his family knows and loves.
“He’s really done phenomenal so far,” Danielle told The Charlotte Gazette in April. “Zeke is one of our more sensitive kids, and we’ve been in awe of the strength, ease, and flexibility he has. Don’t get me wrong, there has been lots of hard times … and the future holds more tough changes, but he has rarely ever complained.”
While Elijah, Noelle, and Micah, have enjoyed socially distanced visits with their brother, it’s obviously not the same as their normal interactions. After recently spending 75 days straight in the hospital, all Zeke wanted to do was hug them… and this month, his wish finally came true!
On September 3, John and Danielle gathered their children together at home and asked them to closed their eyes. The kids thought they were getting stuffed animals. Little did they know a certain someone had just been released from the hospital!
When they finally got the all-clear to open their eyes, Zeke ran toward them, leaping onto the bed to envelop his older brother in a huge hug. While it took his younger siblings a few moments to understand the commotion, their precious reactions show they missed him just as much!
We’re so happy this sweet foursome is back together! Zeke still has a long road ahead of him when it comes to his health, but with his siblings by his side, he’s as strong as ever!
Try not to smile as you watch the adorable reunion below, and share to spread love and support for this family!
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