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The Swanson Family moved up to Lindstrom from Woodbury three years ago to a home in the newly-constructed Lakes Estates neighborhood, near the high school. They set about making a home for their two young sons; the baby Tate and his brother AJ. Mom, Brianna took a job working nearby at the Gallery Bar & Grill at the golf course.

By all appearances things were great. Until one morning-- it was Tate’s second birthday-- and overnight he swelled-up. His dad Mark said Tate’s arms, fingers, his whole body looked about twice the normal size. They rushed him to Fairview Regional Medical Center, and tests pointed to an early diagnosis of kidney failure.

Tate was transferred to University Hospital, where the Swansons would celebrate Christmas and New Year’s in Tate’s hospital room. Tate’s most recent stay was about three weeks ago for 18 days.

“We never know when it’s going to require him being hospitalized,” his dad, Mark explained.

This day Tate is talkative and active, seated on his mother’s lap, giving his version of Christmas in the hospital.

Depending on how his kidneys respond and the strength of his immune system , Tate may be years away from a transplant or months. He is eventually going to need dialysis. He takes several medications now to assist kidney function.

The physicians aren’t certain what triggered the disease, known as FSGS and Nephrotic Syndrome. He was not born with it, his parents were informed. Brianna said blood tests also revealed Tate had contracted West Nile Virus sometime in his young life, which may or may not have been a contributing factor.

The Swanson Family and Gallery Bar & Grill are hosting a fundraiser spaghetti supper Sunday, September 26 to help pay bills associated with this disease. The event includes a silent auction and music.

Serving begins at 5 p.m. and tickets are a donation of $10. The Gallery is at 12957 292nd Street, Lindstrom, at the Chisago Lakes Golf Course.

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