06/07/2026
Meet this years recipient Holden.
Holden Hagenbeck is an 8-year-old boy from Cloquet, Minnesota. He loves the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting with his dad, Cody. If given the choice, Holden will choose fishing or hunting every time. He lives with his parents (Cody & Desi), older brother Lukah (10), younger sister Magnolia (4), and their many animals, including cats, bunnies, and chickens. Holden is energetic, sensitive, and deeply caring toward others.
For years, Holden had ongoing bowel issues. In November 2025, we visited his primary doctor again, who initially believed he was severely constipated. After follow-up appointments, an ultrasound was ordered. On February 13, 2026, we received the call no parent ever wants to hear: Holden had a tumor on his kidney that was most likely cancerous. A CT scan confirmed the mass.
The following week was filled with appointments, testing, and preparing for surgery. On February 20, Holden underwent surgery at Masonic Children’s Hospital for a biopsy and port placement to begin chemotherapy. During surgery, doctors hoped to remove the tumor but found it was attached near his spleen and pancreas, making removal too risky at that time. Holden was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor, the most treatable form of childhood kidney cancer, which gave us hope moving forward.
After surgery and hospitalization, Holden had lost nearly 10 pounds. Through a lot of trial and error with foods and protein drinks, he has since gained back 16 pounds and continues growing stronger.
Holden began chemotherapy on March 6 at Essentia Health in Duluth, where he receives weekly treatments. We are incredibly grateful that he has tolerated treatment relatively well. While he tires more easily, he continues to be his funny, bubbly self.
On April 24, we learned the chemotherapy was working, the tumor had shrunk by 30%. Because it was still attached near his spleen and pancreas, doctors recommended two additional rounds of chemotherapy before surgery. Holden completed his fourth round of chemotherapy on May 13. He has another CT scan scheduled for May 27, and surgery to remove the tumor is planned for June 2. Radiation treatment is also expected after surgery. We still do not know the full length of his treatment plan, but Holden continues to face everything with incredible strength and resilience.
Despite everything, Holden approaches this journey with courage, humor, and curiosity. He asks thoughtful questions, advocates for himself, and still finds ways to laugh through difficult moments. He has the sweetest soul and is already looking forward to a summer filled with fishing and time outdoors.
