Minnesota Family’s Journey: Baby with SCID Receives Lifesaving Transplant

A family from Dennison, Minnesota, faced a life-altering diagnosis when their unborn son was identified as having a rare genetic disorder known as X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), commonly referred to as “bubble boy disease.” This condition leaves affected individuals with a severely compromised immune system, making them exceptionally vulnerable to infections.

Danielle and Nick Haugen learned they were expecting a boy through a gender reveal event, but their excitement quickly shifted to anxiety. Danielle’s brother had previously died from SCID, which intensified her fears for her unborn child. “My brother died from this, and I never really got to meet him,” she shared.

The couple’s concerns grew as they learned that their unborn son had inherited the same disorder. Dr. Christen Ebens, a pediatric bone marrow transplant expert with M Health Fairview, explained, “When you’re born with an immune system that doesn’t work, you’re at incredibly high risk of illness from common infections that other people could handle just fine.”

In the sixth month of her pregnancy, Danielle underwent testing, which confirmed that their son was affected by SCID. Faced with the grim reality, she expressed her fears, saying, “I’m going to have this baby and he’s going to die … because I just know what my mom and dad knew.”

Despite the daunting prognosis, medical advancements have significantly improved survival rates for SCID over the past four decades, primarily due to newborn screenings and successful bone marrow transplants. Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, the Haugens took proactive measures to prepare for their child’s arrival.

To create a safe environment for their son, the family undertook a considerable effort to modify their home. “Basically, we just went into high gear and started cleaning the farm up even more,” said Nick Haugen. They removed livestock and made extensive changes to their property to ensure it was safe for a newborn with SCID.

The community rallied around the Haugen family, organizing fundraisers to assist with their medical expenses, as Nick and Danielle planned to take time off work. Local businesses, such as ServiceMaster, provided deep cleaning services, while HS Ultra installed UV lights in their home’s ductwork. In addition, they constructed a second living unit to facilitate their proximity to the hospital after their son’s transplant.

On December 30, 2024, James Jacob “JJ” Haugen was born. After several months of careful preparation, he received a life-saving bone marrow transplant in early March 2025. Six months later, the Haugens returned to their farm, filled with gratitude for the donor who provided JJ with a second chance at life.

Danielle Haugen now advocates for others to register with the NMDP, formerly known as Be The Match, emphasizing the importance of bone marrow donation. “Without our donor, we would not be standing here with our son alive,” she reflected. “I thank our donor, whoever she is, and I hope to meet her one day for saving JJ’s life.”

As the Haugens look ahead, they envision a future where JJ can enjoy the outdoors alongside his older sister, Brindley. “You’re only young once,” Nick Haugen remarked. “As much time as we can spend with him and do more traveling with him, and more fishing and hunting instead of work.”

Through their remarkable journey, the Haugen family has transformed a heartbreaking diagnosis into a story of hope and resilience. Their experience highlights the profound impact of community support and the advancements in medical science that can change lives.