What started as a way to celebrate one little boy's birthday has grown into a community event that continues to make a difference for families facing childhood cancer.
The fourth annual Heroes for Hudson 5K was recently held in Marshfield, raising about $1,400 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and other families walking through similar challenges.
Organizer Adisynn Gray said the event began after her son, Hudson, was diagnosed with brain cancer in November 2021. Once he returned home from treatment at St. Jude, the family wanted to celebrate more than just another birthday.
"We celebrate his life, his birthday and him coming home," Gray said. "We also do it to give back to the hospital and to other families walking through it."
The fundraiser has steadily grown over the past four years. The first event raised only a few hundred dollars. This year's total topped $1,400, with about 30 to 40 participants and another 10 to 20 volunteers helping make the event possible.
For the past two years, the race has started at the Webster County Baptist Association building near the Marshfield square. The first two races were held at First Baptist Church of Marshfield.
Gray said she hopes the fifth annual event next year continues that upward trend.
The family's busy summer isn't over yet.
On Aug. 7, Hudson will be part of the Great American Road Rally, a new television series hosted by actor Ian Ziering, best known for his role on Beverly Hills, 90210. The show follows celebrity teams as they travel historic Route 66 and complete challenges while raising awareness and support for charitable causes. It is expected to premiere this September on The CW.
As part of the event, Hudson will partner with the Friends of Jacqueline Foundation, a nonprofit that connects children battling pediatric brain cancer with sports teams, first responders and other organizations for encouragement and support.
Gray said plans are still being finalized, but Hudson may be "adopted" by several groups during the event, possibly including a NASCAR driver, a fire department and a professional sports team.
"It's still in the works," she said, "but we're really excited."
Those interested in following Hudson's journey, future fundraisers and upcoming events can find updates through the Heroes for Hudson Facebook group.
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