A toddler from Bristol has died suddenly at home from Kawasaki disease, just weeks before his third birthday. Hudson Martin, from Knowle, collapsed while playing on Thursday, January 8, and despite efforts from paramedics and specialist teams, he could not be saved.
Hudson was diagnosed with the rare condition at seven months old after experiencing flu-like symptoms. His parents, Damien Martin, 40, and Natalie Smith, 39, said he had lived a normal and active life since, describing him as a 'daredevil' who loved climbing and dancing. He was on lifelong medication, including aspirin and blood thinners, to reduce the risk of clots.
On the day of his death, Hudson noticed something was wrong and tried to go upstairs to get help from his mother before collapsing. His mother performed CPR, and paramedics worked for over an hour to revive him. 'His heart just wouldn't come back,' said Damien.
Kawasaki disease causes inflammation in blood vessels and can affect the heart's blood supply. Symptoms include fever, rash, red eyes, swollen hands and feet, and 'strawberry tongue'. Hudson's diagnosis was delayed because he had only had a fever for three days, not the five typically required for diagnosis.
His parents now want to raise awareness of the disease, as even medical professionals can miss the signs. 'It took someone coming in and saying, 'He's got all the symptoms, why hasn't he been treated for Kawasaki disease?'' Natalie recalled.
Hudson leaves behind his parents, older brother Kieran, 22, and twin brothers Ashton and Preston, nine. His body is at the Bristol Royal Infirmary's Rainbow Room, where his family visit daily. 'Our house is just so quiet now,' Damien said.
