The Hyundai Cancer Institute at Rady Children’s was first established in 2011—the same year a 15-month-old named Hudson Kent came to the institute with a lump on his stomach and ultrasound results indicating cancer.
At the institute, pediatric oncologist Dr. Elyssa Rubin determined that Hudson had a cantaloupe-sized Wilms tumor—a rare kidney cancer that required surgery. He underwent four surgeries and six months of chemotherapy before age 3.
Even in the toughest moments, the institute’s physicians, nurses, child life specialists, and medical staff gave Hudson and his family positive memories they will cherish forever.
In fact, the Kent family formed Team HHK and participated in CHOC Walk in the Park shortly after Hudson’s initial diagnosis. They gathered their friends, teammates, and classmates each year to fundraise for Rady Children’s in gratitude for the life-saving care he received. In 2023, Hudson was named the CHOC Walk ambassador, proudly leading Team HHK and thousands of walkers at our annual signature event at Disneyland® Resort.
Today, Hudson has been cancer-free for 15 years—a success story that dates back to the Hyundai Cancer Institute’s early days and a reminder of the life-changing care Rady Children’s provides, made possible by the generosity of our community.
