Our Story
The Ezzy Bear Foundation was born from a love that never ends, a little boy who changed our lives forever, and a desire to turn unimaginable heartbreak into something meaningful.Our story begins with our son, Ezra, lovingly nicknamed “Ezzy Bear.” Ezra made us parents, gave us a love unlike anything we had ever known, and forever changed the way we see the world. Although our time with him was far shorter than we ever imagined, the impact of his life will last forever. If you would like to read about Ezra’s story head over to The Bear Hug Diaries tab.
Losing a child is a heartbreak that words simply cannot describe. It is a journey filled with love, grief, unanswered questions, and learning how to navigate a world that continues moving when yours has stood still. Through our own experience, we came to understand just how important compassion, community, and support truly are for families facing some of life’s most difficult moments.
Rather than allowing Ezra’s story to end with our goodbye, we wanted to create something that would allow his love to continue reaching others. Something that would honor his memory, bring comfort to grieving families, raise awareness, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
And so, The Ezzy Bear Foundation was created.
Our Purpose
The Ezzy Bear Foundation is dedicated to supporting families navigating pregnancy and infant loss, raising awareness for conditions such as omphalocele, and advocating for individuals and families facing fertility challenges.
We believe that no family should have to navigate heartbreak alone. Whether through financial assistance, comforting gifts, sharing personal stories, supporting other charitable organizations, or simply reminding someone that their grief matters, our mission is to bring a little light into life’s darkest moments.
Through initiatives such as Ezzy Bear Hugs, Ezra’s Helping Hands, The Bear Hug Diaries, Ezra’s Open, and Ezra’s Charity Gala, we hope to create opportunities for healing, connection, awareness, and generosity.
Each initiative has its own purpose, but they all share one common goal: to make sure Ezra’s love continues to make a difference.
More Than a Foundation
To us, The Ezzy Bear Foundation is so much more than a nonprofit organization. It is our son’s legacy. It is a way to say his name, share his story, and remind the world that even the smallest lives can leave the biggest footprints.
We know that we cannot take away the pain of losing a child. We cannot change the circumstances that families face or provide answers to every difficult question. But we can offer kindness. We can provide support. We can help ease financial burdens, create meaningful connections, and remind families that their children will never be forgotten.
Our hope is that every family touched by this foundation feels seen, supported, and surrounded by love.
Everything we do begins and ends with Ezra.
Every fundraiser, every teddy bear, every family helped, and every story shared is another opportunity to carry his memory forward.
While we wish more than anything that our little boy could be here in our arms, we are determined to make sure his life continues to have an impact on this world.
Because a love this big deserves a legacy just as beautiful.
With love,
Lexi & Keenan Perkins
Proud parents of Ezra and Founders of The Ezzy Bear Foundation
For Ezra. For the families. For the love that never ends.