Discovering Healing Through Art

At the age of 3, Ezekiel discovered his love for art. He is nonverbal and has autism, so tactile sensory experiences have been vital to his development. His mom, Carmen, a pediatric nurse, started using art as therapy for Ezekiel, which soon developed into a passion for creative expression. 

Initially, Ezekiel struggled with creating art because of sensory sensitivity. However, after experimenting with “messy play,” he found great joy in his craft. “He really enjoyed it,” Carmen says. “He looked really relaxed, like he was thinking about the art.”  

Ezekiel particularly loves using a paint brush, and now, at 7, his joy is evident with every brush stroke. In fact, Ezekiel’s artwork is featured in Phoenix Children’s 2025 calendar, a proud achievement for his family. “I just cried when I got the notification because there were hundreds of applicants,” Carmen says. “It means the world to me because he’s very special to all of us. He’s a great kid and goes through so much.” 

Ezekiel’s maternal aunt, a Phoenix Children’s supporter and professional artist, heard about the 2025 artwork calendar contest and knew Ezekiel’s work would be a great fit. She provided canvases and helped him create a masterpiece that now represents August 2025. “His inspiration for his artwork is life,” Carmen says. “Life is so beautiful, like all the colors of his painting.” 

Early warning signs 

Born prematurely at 36 weeks, Ezekiel faced developmental challenges during his early months. Carmen and her husband, Daniel, watched as Ezekiel struggled to meet typical milestones. While his primary care provider assured them these delays could be normal for a premature baby, the months passed, and Ezekiel’s struggles persisted. “At about the 12-month mark, he was still not able to talk, roll over, sit up unassisted, crawl and walk,” Carmen recalls. 

In October 2020, Ezekiel was officially diagnosed with autism, providing some clarity for his family, but their journey was far from over. Jennifer Yuen, a neurologist at Phoenix Children’s at the time, conducted further genetic testing, determined to uncover the full scope of Ezekiel’s condition. In May 2021, Ezekiel was officially diagnosed with Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that can cause a range of physical, cognitive and developmental challenges. “Our dreams and hopes we had for our son changed,“ Carmen says. “It is not what we planned for, but this new journey is ours, which we continue to fill with hope and love.”  

Carmen adds that she and her family are forever grateful to Dr. Yuen for going above and beyond to diagnose Ezekiel properly. “She never gave up hope to find a diagnosis for us. She knew there was more to Ezekiel than just autism.” 

Charting his own path 

Today, Ezekiel is thriving in first grade. He receives physical, occupational and speech therapies at Phoenix Children’s, where his progress continues to amaze his parents. His story of perseverance and inspiration is expressed through his art. And when he’s not conquering milestones, he’s being the best big brother to his little sister, Catalina. She can often be found working and playing nearby. “We are so proud of all of Ezekiel’s accomplishments,” Carmen says. “No matter the challenges Ezekiel faces every day, he never gives up. He is our brave superhero. He is our inspiration. He is our champion!” 

Carmen and Daniel are also thankful they aren’t alone on this journey. Their Phoenix Children’s care team has helped them every step of the way. “I would’ve not been able to do this by myself,” Carmen says. “It’s such a rare condition.”