In the quiet transition between the end of one year and the hope of another, some families are granted a fresh start, while others are asked to shoulder a familiar, heavy burden. For little Hudson D. and his parents, Alec and his mother, the start of 2026 has brought a reality they had prayed they would never have to face again. It is a time that calls for a community of “Angels”—friends, family, and strangers alike—to gather in a circle of prayer and support.
For two years, the family had lived in the hard-won peace of post-treatment life. They celebrated milestones, cherished quiet moments, and watched Hudson grow, always with the shadow of his previous battle lingering in the back of their minds. However, that peace was fractured on November 20th during a routine two-year scan. What was meant to be a simple check-up revealed a suspicious spot on Hudson’s right kidney.
What followed was a grueling month of uncertainty. MRI and CT scans led to an inconclusive ultrasound, which eventually necessitated a biopsy on December 16th. While the surgery to remove the mass was successful, the silence that followed was deafening. The sample was sent to specialized labs, leaving the family in a painful limbo through the holiday season. The question “is it cancerous or not?” hung in the air, casting a long shadow over their New Year celebrations.
On Friday, December 26th, the phone call every oncology parent dreads finally came. The results confirmed a nephroblastoma lesion. Hudson had relapsed; the cancer was back. Hearing those words for a second time does not make them easier to bear; if anything, it makes the heartbreak deeper, as they know exactly how difficult the road ahead will be.
Hudson’s journey has always been unique, a fact that makes his case a puzzle even for the brightest medical minds. Because his situation does not follow a standard path, his doctors have reached out to the prestigious tumor board at St. Jude’s Research Hospital. This week, specialists will review his history and scans to craft a treatment plan tailored specifically to his needs.
Until that plan is set, the family is stuck in the most difficult stage of any medical journey: the waiting game. They are caught between the shock of the diagnosis and the start of the fight. In her heartfelt update, Hudson’s mother expressed the deep gratitude she and Alec feel for the community that has walked beside them.
“Your thoughts, prayers, and words of support mean the absolute world to us,” she shared. Now, more than ever, Hudson needs those extra prayers. He needs the strength of a community to hold him up while he prepares to face his giant once again.
Here is a supportive social media post designed to rally Hudson’s community, focusing on strength, prayer, and solidarity.
“Angels,” we are calling on every one of you today. We just received a heart-wrenching update from Hudson’s mom, and our brave buddy needs us now more than ever.
After two years of being post-treatment, Hudson’s recent scans revealed a “spot” on his right kidney. After weeks of tests, biopsies, and the agonizing “waiting game” over the holidays, the news we all dreaded has been confirmed: Hudson has relapsed. His cancer is back. 💔
Hudson’s case has always been unique, which makes the next steps even more complex. Right now, his medical team is collaborating with the experts at St. Jude’s to create a specialized treatment plan.
While the doctors work on the science, we need to work on the prayers. 🕊️
Alec and Hudson’s mom are incredibly grateful for this community, but the reality of this second battle is setting in. Let’s surround this family with a wall of support that can’t be broken.
How you can help right now:
- PRAY HARD: For Hudson’s strength, for the wisdom of the St. Jude’s tumor board, and for peace that passes understanding for his parents.
- POST A MESSAGE: Let Alec and Mom know they aren’t walking this path alone. Leave a note of encouragement for Hudson below. 👇
- SHARE: Keep Hudson’s story moving so more “Angels” can join our prayer circle.
Hudson has fought this giant before, and he is a warrior through and through. But even warriors need an army behind them.
