Hudson Kalb Hudson's Story

Hudson was born on August 2, 2014, a healthy and precious baby boy. At one month of age he started developing eczema which continued to worsen over the next few months. His skin condition led to a trip to the allergist and diagnosis of a peanut allergy. Hudson was started on an early food introduction (to he allergenic food - peanuts) to build and maintain a tolerance to all nuts (this was a fairly new procedure at Nationwide Children's Hospital). We (mom and dad) were thrilled with this news as our other daughter had a severe dairy allergy and we understood the dangers of food allergies. Unfortunately within a few months Hudson developed an allergy to eggs and sesame as well as a diagnosis of asthma. We continued to pursue the use of probiotics, supplements, oils and a Whole Foods diet to assist his immune system. 
After his second birthday, Hudson passed the food challenge for eggs and sesame and was cleared to eat anything! We were so excited about this new freedom in life that one month later when Hudson had a seizure-like event after a day spent at a pumpkin patch (bounce houses and such) we truly thought it was a fluke thing and didn't worry about it (after consulting with Dr). 
Hudson was his normal active self until New Years eve 2016 Hudson complained of dizziness and had another seizure-like event (because none of these events were captured on EEG, it is hard to say if it was a true seizure). He proceeded to have 2 more events within the next 2 weeks and we were referred to Neurology. Following this, Hudson was seen by ophthalmology, cardiology, ENT and received a MRI of his brain in March 2017.  This MRI revealed inflammation around the center or thalamus of his brain. Hudson was admitted and had further testing, including a lumbar puncture and additional blood work. The thought at this point was that he had a virus which traveled to the brain and this was the remaining inflammation, since the lumbar puncture did not indicate a demyelinating condition (like MS). 
Hudson started receiving physical therapy for this vestibular system to help with dizzy episodes and balance. After a few months he was having less seizure-like episodes and dizziness. 
Hudson was scheduled for a follow-up MRI in July to ensure the inflammation had cleared from his brain as well as ear tube placement to further help his vestibular system. We went into this procedure with a very positive mind-set as we were expecting everything to be cleared (or at least almost gone). The following day we received a phone call from his neurologist that we were not expecting. We were informed that Hudson's inflammation had not changed at all, which would likely indicate a low-grade glioma (brain tumor). We learned that due to the location in the center of his brain, it would not be possible to operate and remove the tumor (or perform a biopsy). Hudson began seeing a neuro-oncologist and he recommended monitoring the tumor by MRI every 3 months with the possibility of spacing out the MRIs if the tumor remains stable for some time. Since Hudson's symptoms have been mild, treatment (radiation or chemotherapy) was not recommended at that time since the side effects and risks of these treatments would be worse then Hudson's symptoms. We had a second opinion thru St Jude's Children Research Hospital and the tumor board concurred. 
Since July Hudson has undergone 2 MRIs (last one on February 2) both showing the tumor has remained stable. A huge answer to prayer. 
A question Brent and I have asked is "could this tumor just remain the same size for Hudson's life?" We have been told that it is possible, however most likely this tumor will start to grow at some point and will require chemotherapy to treat. Often these low-grade tumors grow and then plateau and then grow and plateau....Hudson's oncologist has told us that if Hudson can make it until he is 16 years old having only received 2-3 rounds of chemo he will be much healthier and have a better quality of life than if he were to have received 12 + rounds of chemo. I realize he is trying to be positive and help us understand that each MRI that shows stability is a blessing and Hudson has made it that much longer without receiving treatment. However the thought of Hudson having to receive any amount of chemo just sounds awful to me. So we are trying to be grateful for each MRI that continues to show stability and pray for a full miracle by the next round of tests. 
Most recently there has been a concern with Hudson's high level of daily water intake and extreme thirst and corresponding urine output. Diabetes mellitus does not appear to be the cause since his blood glucose has been normal however further investigation into diabetes insipidus and/or other conditions is in the works. 
We know Hudson has a quite a journey ahead of him but we are confident that God will work all things together for his good, whatever the outcome may be. Thank you for your prayers and support for Hudson and our family. We are continually reminded of what a wonderful and supportive network of family and friends we have and you all are near and dear to our hearts. 
This story was written to update everyone on Hudson's status and I hope to post an update after MRIs/ appointments to keep you informed. 
For now, I will leave you with a scripture verse that  I often recite to Hudson during tests/appointments, from Joshua 1:9  Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.