Unleashing Hudson’s Full Potential
Nine-year-old Hudson showcases the transformative impact that takes place when children with special needs gain access to the right programs and opportunities.
Born with a brain injury that led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, Hudson has faced significant challenges from the very start. Spending 28 days in the NICU and coming home with a feeding tube, his journey has been anything but easy. However, with the love and dedication of his family and the support of Variety St. Louis, Hudson is thriving in ways that once seemed unimaginable.
When Hudson’s family first learned about Variety, their insurance covered much of his equipment needs. Yet as he grew older, coverage for essential items became more restricted.
“Equipment is thousands of dollars. For insurance to tell me that they won’t help provide an opportunity for my son to stand independently is devastating,” shares his mom, Katie.
Hudson’s daily life is enhanced by various specialized equipment such as a feeder seat, Hoyer lift, and stander, which enable him to navigate the world with greater independence and comfort. Variety stepped in to provide access to these tools, making what seemed impossible, possible.
Since his equipment arrived, Hudson has made remarkable progress not only physically, but also in areas like independence, socialization, and self-esteem. Whether it’s riding his therapeutic bike with siblings or using his stander to engage in activities, Hudson’s confidence and pride in his newfound abilities is evident.
“In his stander, he’s able to focus on activities that are on his tray and be more eye-level with others. You can tell he’s very proud of himself, he almost sits higher, as if to say look at me mom!”
Hudson also benefits from hippotherapy and recently made his debut in Variety and COCA’s production of Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. Hudson’s excitement during auditions was unmistakable as he became a part of his first theatre cast.
“I was really excited about the socialization aspect for him in Finding Nemo. It was really cool to watch his audition and to see kids of all abilities, including each other, encouraging each other. I saw a different side of Hudson. I am so happy he got to experience that,” explains Katie.
Hudson’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact that community support and the right resources can have on a child and their family’s life. Through the love of his family and the help of Variety, Hudson continues to overcome challenges and embrace life with joy and determination.
“Those who care and donate to Variety’s mission truly mean the world to families like ours.”