Through Pain Comes
Purpose
As fierce advocates for the Lyme and MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) communities, the AHLF team is dedicated to spreading awareness about Lyme disease while raising funds for research specific to MCAS.
A compelling love story between a mother and her daughter.
When eleven-year-old Alex Hudson complained that her leg hurt, her mother, Jody, thought it was just growing pains. But for the next ten years, Alex battled with what perplexed doctors deemed a medical mystery. Refusing to let this ambiguous label define her, Alex researched and sought out medical professionals who might help her. After more than forty doctors’ visits and multiple incorrect diagnoses, in May of 2017, Alex finally received the correct diagnosis―Lyme disease. She immediately began aggressive treatment, but would it prove to be too late? Throughout her ever-changing illness, Alex forged ahead and focused on her faith, finding answers, while taking time to serve others. When the physical pain became unbearable, she refused to take medication to ease her suffering. Instead, she chose to keep a clear mind and trust God to guide her as she faced each impossible challenge.
“....a symphony of love―one that inspires, empowers, and reminds readers to never give up on life or those we love.” Armen Bacon, Author of Griefland: An Intimate Portrait of Love, Loss, and Unlikely Friendship
Behind the Data
40%
40% of Lyme patients spent more than $10,000 out of pocket annually for treatment and doctor costs.
86%
86% of Lyme patients end up with long term health problems due to delayed diagnosis.
4 School Buses
4 School buses of children a day are diagnosed with Lyme disease.
"Your greatest ministry will most likely come out of your greatest hurt."
- Rick Warren
Alex's Story
After ten years of being misdiagnosed and labeled a “medical mystery”, Alex Hudson passed away on March 24, 2018 at the tender age of 22. It wasn’t until May of 2017 that Alex was properly diagnosed with Lyme disease and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Sadly, by that point, the years of battling Lyme disease had taken its toll on her body. From her bed, Alex would ask the same question over and over again: “Are the doctors going to be able to help me?”
A vibrant young woman who was known for her servant’s heart, Alex had been eager to further her education and attend UCLA with a full-ride scholarship. Unfortunately, Lyme disease and MCAS rerouted her path and she spent her final months rallying as a Lyme warrior. When she came to the realization that God had other plans for her, she asked her mother and best friend, Jody Hudson, to lead her crusade against Lyme disease and MCAS. The Alex Hudson Lyme Foundation was born out of Alex’s final wishes.
