Fresno cancer survivor meets life-saving stem cell donor at runDisney event

The pair connected through an online blood stem cell donor registry and reunited at the Disney World resort.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:06am

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An abstract, ghostly X-ray image revealing the delicate, intricate structure of a human blood stem cell, symbolizing the life-saving power of stem cell donation.A touching reunion between a Fresno cancer survivor and her life-saving stem cell donor highlights the profound impact of blood donation.Fresno Today

A Fresno cancer survivor named Abby Hudak had the chance to meet her life-saving stem cell donor, Lewis Haggerty from Scotland, during the 2026 "runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend" at the Walt Disney World resort in Florida. The two complete strangers were matched through an online blood stem cell donor registry, and they shared an emotional reunion filled with gratitude before participating in a 5k run together.

Why it matters

This story highlights the importance of blood stem cell donation registries and the life-changing impact donors can have. It also showcases how Disney events can create special moments for people facing health challenges.

The details

Abby Hudak underwent a life-saving stem cell transplant in 2023 after being matched with Lewis Haggerty, a donor from Scotland, through an online registry. This week, the two met in person for the first time at the 2026 "runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend" event at Walt Disney World, where they shared an emotional reunion filled with hugs and deep gratitude. Afterward, Abby and Lewis participated in a 5k run together as part of the weekend's festivities, which had a theme of iconic Disney duos.

  • Abby Hudak had her life-saving stem cell transplant in 2023.
  • Abby and Lewis met in person for the first time during the 2026 "runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend" event at Walt Disney World.
  • The 2026 "runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend" event took place from April 17-20, 2026.

The players

Abby Hudak

A cancer survivor from Fresno, California who received a life-saving stem cell transplant in 2023.

Lewis Haggerty

Abby's stem cell donor, a man from Scotland who was matched with Abby through an online blood stem cell donor registry.

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The takeaway

This heartwarming story demonstrates the life-changing power of stem cell donation and the ability of events like the runDisney weekends to create meaningful connections between donors and recipients. It underscores the importance of registering as a potential blood stem cell donor and the profound impact one person can have on another's life.