Ellie Hudson is a beautiful 10 month old baby girl who has overcome more in her first year than many of us face in a lifetime.  Everyone who knows Ellie is touched by her joy and sweetness, and the incredible courage and positivity of her parents, John & Kelly.  In June 2018, just after her 9 month birthday, Ellie was diagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma in her liver, her femur, her rib, and in a tumor next to her liver.  Of course, this is a devastating thing for any family to hear, but the good news is that the doctors are very optimistic about the likelihood of Ellie's recovery.  (See more details about her diagnosis below.)  Ellie has begun chemotherapy, which is projected to last for at least six months.  As a result, it's been necessary for Ellie's mom, Kelly, to take an extended leave of absence from work to navigate Ellie's new needs as she battles this cancer.  So the Hudsons are facing tremendous medical expenses, while also experiencing a decrease in income.

Please consider making a donation today to help alleviate the pressing expenses that this beautiful family is facing!  A donation from you will allow John & Kelly to focus all of their energy on Ellie's health and care.  Together we can make this incredibly difficult time a little easier!  #EllieStrong

John, Ellie, & Kelly Hudson

Ellie making friends at the blood drive held in her honor at Marie Riviere Elementary in Metairie, where her mom, Kelly, is a teacher. (Video from the event here: https://www.facebook.com/jeffparishschools/videos/vb.275832982536008/313473069211574/?type=2&theater)

The Story: On June 4th, 2018 nine month old Ellie was admitted to the hospital for vomiting and dehydration.  Doctors initially thought she was suffering from a sinus infection, but as her condition worsened they became concerned that her intestines may have become malrotated for a second time.  (She was diagnosed with malrotated intestines when she was a few days old, which meant surgery and a one month NICU stay.)  While investigating that possibility, tests revealed that there is a tumor next to Ellie's liver and multiple lesions on the liver itself.  After a biopsy and further tests it was determined that Ellie has Stage 4 Neuroblastoma, a childhood form of cancer, in several parts of her body, including her ribs, her femur, her liver, and the tumor itself.  Ellie has begun a 6 month course of chemotherapy, which may need to be extended depending on how the cancer reacts to the treatments.  This has meant lengthy hospital stays, constant doctors visits, and the exhausting daily routine of caring for a baby who is undergoing chemo.  Through all of this John and Kelly have shown remarkable strength and calm, in spite of the tremendous difficulties they face.  And Ellie's smile continues to brighten the day of everyone she meets!

This family is such an inspiration to all of us, and we hope you will support them in any way that you can!  God bless!