On February 15, 2026, my cousin Zeke was running the Austin Half Marathon when he suddenly collapsed at mile 12, just one mile from the finish line. What should have been a proud and exciting moment quickly turned into a life-threatening emergency.

We are incredibly grateful for the pedestrians who immediately stopped to help him and called for emergency assistance. Zeke was rushed to Ascension Seton Hospital, where doctors worked quickly and ultimately saved his life. He suffered a cardiac arrest and was intubated and sedated for several days while his care team worked to stabilize him.

At first, doctors were unsure what caused this to happen. After extensive testing, they discovered that Zeke was born with a very rare congenital heart condition called a coronary artery anomaly — a defect in how the arteries that supply blood to the heart were formed. Coronary artery anomalies overall occur in less than 1% of people. Many people live their entire lives unaware they have this condition, and it often isn’t discovered until a serious cardiac event occurs. Because of this diagnosis, Zeke will need open-heart surgery to correct the issue and prevent future complications.

Despite everything he has been through, Zeke is in good spirits and focusing on healing.

Zeke is a local hairdresser here in Austin, someone who works hard, supports himself through his craft, and brings joy and confidence to the people he serves. This medical emergency came without warning, and as he recovers and prepares for surgery, he will be unable to work. Our hope is that he can focus fully on healing without the added stress of medical bills, rent, and basic living expenses.

We are creating this GoFundMe to come together as a community and support Zeke during this incredibly difficult and unexpected time.

If you feel led to donate, any amount is deeply appreciated and will go directly toward easing the financial burden he now faces. If you’re unable to give financially, our family is incredibly grateful for your prayers, kind words, and well wishes.

Thank you for taking the time to read Zeke’s story and for surrounding him with love and support.

With gratitude,

Kirsten Ruiz