Tanner is Resting

On February 18th, eat a scoop to remember Tanner, because #kidsgetcancertoo. @eaticecreamday @tanners_team #mds #MyelodysplasticSyndrom

Tweet

Tanner lived and lit up this world for 11 1/2 years.  He was a athletic, hockey-loving, handsome redheaded young man, who was so loved by his parents, younger sister Maddie, extended family and many friends.  Vibrant, positive, and kindhearted were how those lucky enough to meet him remember him.

From Tanners Dad: 

The weekend of July 17, 2010, we were at a cabin enjoying time with great friends when Tanner hit his arm on the corner of a table. Within an hour it had turned black and blue and we knew we needed to have it examined. We took him to the doctor, then to the Children’s Hospital-Minneapolis where he was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). Tanner checked into Children’s Hospital on September 13 to start chemotherapy and was discharged on October 6. Tanner enjoyed life to the fullest during the next three weeks and accomplished his ultimate goal of planting the flag at center ice before the start of the October 28 Minnesota Wild game.

On October 29, Tanner was admitted to the University of Minnesota Amplatz Children’s Hospital. Tanner was always so strong and positive at this time, not once did Tanner complain about his pain. On November 8, a day we call Tanner’s second birthday, surrounded by his family, Tanner received a bone marrow transplant. On November 13, he developed an infection, was transferred to the pediatric ICU, and was placed on a ventilator.

At around 9pm on November 27, 2010, Tanner’s blood pressure and vitals dropped. The medical staff did everything in their power to save Tanner, but it was not meant to be. Tanner passed away at 11 pm that night.

We made a promise to each other to keep Tanner’s spirit alive within all of us by helping others. Tanner’s Team Foundation, www.tannersteam.org, has been set up to help other families who are dealing with childhood cancer or other serious illnesses.  We help families in central Minnesota cover housing, transportation, and household expenses incurred during their child’s care and treatment.

Tanner, we cherish the 11-1/2 years we were able to spend with you.   Your legacy lives on. We miss you and we love you to heaven and back.