Hudson’s journey: A story of hope, community and the sound of love

By Sheree Hoddinett  

If you have ever met nine-year-old Hudson Magee from Toorbul, chances are you would have been captivated by his cheeky smile. 

But what sets Hudson apart from many other kids his age is that he lives with a condition that greatly affects his everyday life. He was born with a congenital condition called Bilateral Microtia Atresia. This means both of Hudson’s ears have underdeveloped outer ears and absent ear canals which has resulted in a conductive hearing loss which is where sound can’t efficiently travel to the inner ear.  

Hudson’s entrance into the world was quite a dramatic one. He arrived four weeks early, in a way no parent could ever prepare for. Born blue, his tiny body lifeless, doctors and nurses raced from every direction as a code blue was called in the delivery suite. He was revived and taken for urgent care, but it was also in those early hours that Hudson’s parents Teigan and Damien were told the news that their son had been born with a disability.  

“It was a lot to take in, as we were still in shock from the birth and then to learn that Hudson would face extra challenges...it was overwhelming,” Teigan said. “But from the moment we saw him breathing, we knew he was a fighter.” 

Hudson’s fighting spirit became even more important just nine short weeks later when tragedy struck. On July 24, 2016, Hudson’s big brother, Hunter, then only two years and two months old, suddenly fell ill. Despite the tireless efforts of doctors, Hunter passed away, leaving a family shattered but determined to keep his memory alive. 

“For us, the days that followed were a blur of grief, disbelief and aching love for both of our boys, one in our arms and one forever in our hearts,” Teigan said. “Hunter taught us what unconditional love really means, and through Hudson, that love keeps shining.” 

Hudson’s world today looks very different from most nine-year-old kids. His weekly schedule is filled with appointments, speech therapy in the morning, occupational therapy in the afternoon, paediatrician and ENT check-ups and sessions with a psychologist to support his emotional wellbeing. But for Teigan and Damien (also parents to Hudson’s older brother Brandon and younger sister Amayah), every appointment is a step toward giving their son the best life possible. 

“For many, the medical jargon and endless paperwork would be overwhelming, but for us, it has become second nature, part of our normal,” Teigan said. “Between appointments, we make sure there’s still plenty of time for play and adventures. Hudson has the biggest personality, he might have hearing aids and regular check-ups, but he’s still just a cheeky little boy who loves to laugh and explore.”  

Hudson’s family has been working tirelessly to raise funds for life-changing surgery that could give Hudson the gift of hearing and open up new possibilities for his future.  

“It’s a big goal, but we know it’s possible, especially with the incredible support we’ve had from our community. From trivia nights that filled a hall with laughter, to collecting 10 cent containers through the state’s recycling scheme, every effort adds up. No contribution is too small. Every can, every dollar, every event brings Hudson one step closer to his surgery,” Teigan said. “We have also thrown ourselves into community life, volunteering at the Kilcoy Rodeo to raise funds and awareness. Local businesses have joined the cause hosting Christmas events and fundraisers to help make a difference. The generosity has been overwhelming. It’s a reminder that we live in a truly special place, one that looks after its own.” 

The next exciting fundraiser for Hudson is being led by two incredible community champions, Anthony and Michelle from Poolwerx Bribie Island.  

“Words can’t express how grateful we are. Anthony and Michelle have truly taken Hudson’s story to heart. Their generosity and passion give us hope every single day,” Teigan said. 

The Poolwerx Bribie Island Christmas Fundraiser promises to be an incredible show of generosity and festive fun. Running from November 1 to December 22, it features a silent auction with some amazing prizes, including a signed Brisbane Heat cricket shirt and media shorts, several robotic pool cleaners, a robotic leaf skimmer and even a pool blanket roller with a bench seat. 

Alongside the auction, there’s a raffle with the first prize consisting of a full day barbecue boat hire (from Bribie Island Boat Hire) for up to 12 people. There’s also a Decorations for Donations initiative where customers can donate and take home a beautiful Christmas decoration from the store’s giving tree. 

“Hudson’s family are one of the most beautiful, humble families I’ve ever known,” Michelle explains about lending their support. “They’ve been through so much and we just wanted to help. There was a need in the community and it had to be filled.” 

Michelle admits she’s poured more than 300 hours of her time into preparing for the fundraiser, wrapping hampers, decorating and organising donations, but says it’s worth every second. 

“Nine-and-a-half years is a long time for a little boy to go without hearing. Every bit of love and effort that goes into this event brings him closer to that moment, the day he hears the words ‘I love you’ for the very first time,” she said. “We are trying to raise as much as we possibly can to help go towards Hudson’s medical expenses for bionic ears, which are $380,000. This beautiful young man needs the help of his community.” 

Make sure you drop in and see the team at Poolwerx Bribie Island – Shop 2, 122 Goodwin Drive, Bongaree.  

If you’d like to join Hudson's fundraising journey, please reach out to Teigan and Damien via “Help Hudson Hear” on Facebook or contact Teigan 0430 040 774 or Damien 0419 648 757. Every bit of support helps bring Hudson closer to his goal.