A Wichita Falls family is receiving an outpouring of support as their baby boy, Hudson Hughes, continues his brave fight against leukemia. The community has come together to organize a benefit event this Saturday, November 9, in honor of Hudson, who has been battling cancer since he was just 9 months old. The event promises to be a day full of love, solidarity, and fundraising, as local residents unite to support the young fighter and his family during this incredibly challenging time.
A Heartbreaking Diagnosis Leads to Community Action
Hudson Hughes was diagnosed with leukemia on July 5, 2024, when he was only 9 months old. Since then, the Hughes family has faced an emotional and physical rollercoaster, with Hudson undergoing chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and now preparing for a bone marrow transplant. Despite the severity of his condition, Hudson has shown remarkable resilience, with his family and the local community offering unwavering support.
The upcoming benefit at The Warehouse in downtown Wichita Falls was organized after friends and family of the Hughes family recognized the need to provide both emotional and financial support during this critical time. Chelsie Powell, Hudson’s aunt, explained how the idea for the benefit came together.
“Some friends reached out to us, and we got together and decided that we wanted to do this benefit for the Hughes family,” Powell said. “It’s been a blessing to see how everyone has come together to help.”
Event Features: A Day of Fun, Fundraising, and Community Solidarity
The benefit event, which will run from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, promises a variety of activities designed to bring the community together and raise much-needed funds for Hudson’s ongoing medical care. The event will include a fish fry, live and silent auctions, a bake sale, a cornhole tournament, and more.
Family members, friends, and local businesses have all joined forces to make the event a success. Powell described how the community has come together to make the event as impactful as possible, from gathering auction items to preparing the food for the fish fry.
“We started reaching out to local businesses, friends, family, and other contacts to start getting donation items for the auctions,” Powell said. “Family and friends are coming together to help cook all the fish for the fry. It’s truly amazing how everyone is pitching in.”
The event will also feature a DJ, kids’ games, and plenty of activities for all ages, ensuring that there will be something for everyone. The cornhole tournament, which will kick off at 1 p.m., is one of the major attractions, with a $25 entry fee per team.
Outpouring of Support From Strangers and Friends Alike
The benefit event is not only a chance for those who know Hudson and his family to show their support but also for complete strangers to lend a helping hand. Powell shared how she has been moved by the kindness of people who have reached out to offer donations, prayers, and messages of encouragement.
“It means a lot to us. We’ve had people reach out to us through Facebook, text messages, and other ways, saying that they want to donate to the family,” Powell said tearfully. “There have been people we haven’t talked to in years who have reached out. It’s been overwhelming but amazing.”
This outpouring of support underscores the deep sense of community and compassion that the people of Wichita Falls and beyond have for the Hughes family during this difficult time. Hudson’s story has touched the hearts of many, and the benefit event is expected to bring even more people together in solidarity.
Hudson’s Strength and Resilience
Despite the challenges Hudson faces in his battle with leukemia, his family is constantly inspired by his strength and resilience. Powell shared that although Hudson has spent the majority of the past four months in the hospital, he continues to show remarkable signs of positivity.
“The first few days, weeks, not knowing what was going to happen—it was terrifying,” Powell said. “But it’s amazing to see what such a tiny little human can go through and still be happy. He’s so strong, and that gives all of us strength.”
Out of the 125 days since Hudson’s diagnosis, he has spent just 17 days at home, with the rest of his time spent receiving treatment at the hospital. His ongoing battle has required a level of endurance that is far beyond his years, and his family is continuously amazed by his courage.
Powell expressed her gratitude for the support the family has received and emphasized how much the upcoming event means to them.
“We want people to come out and support Hudson and the family, whether they know us personally or not. We’re all family here, and it will be great to talk, relax, and have fun together,” Powell said.
A Lifeline for the Hughes Family
The benefit event will be a crucial fundraising opportunity for the Hughes family, as they continue to manage Hudson’s medical expenses. With the added costs of chemotherapy, radiation, and a forthcoming bone marrow transplant, the financial burden is overwhelming. But thanks to the support from the community, Powell said the family is able to focus on what matters most—Hudson’s recovery.
“Everyone coming together to help, whether it’s through donating items for the auction or just showing up to the event, means the world to us,” Powell said. “We’re so grateful for everyone who has supported us through this journey.”
For those who are unable to attend the event but still wish to contribute, Powell mentioned that there are other ways to help, including donating directly to the family or sharing the event information on social media.
Event Details and How to Get Involved
The benefit event for Hudson will take place on Saturday, November 9, at The Warehouse in downtown Wichita Falls. The cornhole tournament will begin at 1 p.m., with the main benefit event starting at 5 p.m. Admission is free, and all proceeds from the auctions, fish fry, bake sale, and other activities will go directly to Hudson’s medical care.
In addition to the cornhole tournament, attendees will enjoy live music from a DJ, kids’ games, and the chance to bid on various items in the live and silent auctions.
Those interested in participating in the cornhole tournament or donating to the event can find more information on the benefit’s Facebook page. Powell also encouraged everyone to visit the page for updates on Hudson’s progress and for other ways to support the family.
“We’re so thankful for the love and support we’ve received, and we hope to see everyone come out to celebrate Hudson’s strength and to help our family during this challenging time,” Powell said.
Final Thoughts: A Community United
The upcoming benefit for Hudson Hughes is not just an opportunity to raise funds for medical care but a testament to the power of community. As Hudson continues his fight against leukemia, the support of friends, family, and even strangers has been a source of strength for his family. The upcoming event is just one of many ways the Wichita Falls community is showing up to make a difference in Hudson’s life.
Whether through financial contributions, words of encouragement, or simply showing up to share in the celebration of Hudson’s bravery, the love and support surrounding this family are undeniable. The benefit event on November 9th will be a reminder that in times of hardship, people come together to lift each other up, and the fight for Hudson’s recovery is one that the whole community is proud to be a part of.
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