Philadelphia, PA - On a sunny afternoon at Citizens Bank Park, the crowd held its breath as Zeke Clark, a spirited 4-year-old from Delaware, stepped onto the pitcher’s mound.
His journey to this moment had been marked by resilience, courage, and an unwavering spirit.
Last June, Zeke was riding on a lawnmower with his father, Jonathan. In a split second, tragedy struck. Zeke jumped off the machine, but it continued forward, running over his tiny leg. Jonathan’s parental instincts kicked in, and he lifted the heavy lawnmower off his son. Using his belt as a makeshift tourniquet, he slowed the bleeding until medics arrived. Zeke was rushed to Nemours Children’s Hospital, where doctors made the difficult decision to amputate part of his leg.
Zeke’s resilience was evident from the start. He faced surgeries, pain, and rehabilitation with a determination that belied his age. Less than a year after the life-altering accident, he was fitted with a prosthetic leg at Nemours. But Zeke’s story was far from over.
As the Phillies prepared for their Opening Day game, Zeke received a special invitation. He would throw out the first pitch alongside his orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Jeanne Franzone. The stadium buzzed with anticipation as Zeke stepped onto the field, his prosthetic leg gleaming in the sunlight. The crowd erupted in applause, recognizing the bravery of this young boy.
Zeke’s courage has inspired those around him. His family believes that despite the challenges he’s faced, he’ll live a full life.
As the baseball soared from Zeke’s hand, crossing the plate with determination, the crowd rose to its feet. Zeke Clark, the Delaware boy who lost part of his leg, had become a symbol of strength and hope for everyone watching.
And so, on that hallowed ground, Zeke’s journey took a new turn. The Phillies’ Opening Day was more than a game; it was a celebration of courage, community, and the power of the human spirit.
By Salam Bustanji
