Celebrating the Life of a Teen Lost to Bullying: A Community’s Tribute

Zackary “Zack” Born, a 19-year-old from Maricopa, tragically took his own life on September 4, 2024. His love for skateboarding and fitness marked his young life.

A memorial service to celebrate Zack’s life is scheduled for October 5, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Sassy’s Café, located at 4210 E. Main St. in Mesa. His mother, Patty Born, shared the details as the community prepares to honor her son.

Zack faced numerous challenges, including autism and depression, and struggled with the emotional impact of a house fire that left him severely burned from the waist down. His mother recalled that Zack aspired to compete in mixed martial arts and wished to become a welder.

A month before his passing, Zack made the significant decision to donate his organs. His heart valves contributed to medical research, while his kidneys and liver were provided to patients in need, potentially saving lives.

Patty, a psychiatric nurse practitioner working at the state prison in Florence, suspects that bullying at school and workplace harassment exacerbated Zack’s condition. “He faced ridicule about his burns,” she noted, emphasizing the need for vigilance among parents regarding their children’s mental health.

She expressed grave concern for those living with chronic depression and urged parents to maintain open dialogues with their children. “I felt deep down that my son was in a precarious situation. It’s devastating to piece together the signs that could have prevented this,” Patty said, reflecting on Zack’s internal struggles despite his outward athleticism.

“He was sweet and kind but found it hard to connect with peers because of his autism,” she added. Patty described Zack as wise beyond his years, highlighting the complexities of his character and the battles he fought.