Scott and Ania Swanson have two sons: Ruben is 21 and Caleb 17. Ruben has special needs and depends on a feeding tube. In the last few months he has been diagnosed with NF2, a syndrome that produces multiple tumors along his nervous system. Currently, Ruben has a tumor in his middle ear that pushes on his brain stem and a large tumor in his neck. The Swansons have been making multiple trips to Washington DC to meet with specialists to treat his condition.

While the Swansons have been busy tending to Ruben and his needs, Scott suffered from a sore throat for months, which was not relieved after multiple rounds of antibiotics. After a long delay, in mid-May he was finally able to see an ENT specialist. Three days later he was diagnosed with stage four throat cancer. The doctors immediately ordered a trach placement to help Scott breath, a feeding tube and a chemotherapy port. Scott will undergo chemotherapy and radiation for the next few months.

To this point, both Scott and Ania have cared for Ruben’s needs. Now Ania will be left to care for both Scott and Ruben. They will need continued trips to Washington or UVA for Ruben. In fact, he may have brain surgery this summer at the same time as Scott is undergoing chemotherapy and radiation.

Scott is an architect and has been working as an independent contractor. He does not have medical leave or any disability benefits. During the long journey ahead, the Swansons will face some medical needs not covered by insurance in addition to mortgage payments and living expenses.

This is an unimaginable trial for them, and financial worries only compound the medical ones. If you are able to help in any amount, please do so. We would also love to have a group of people who can make monthly contributions while Scott is not able to work. Through all this, please continue to pray for healing and for God’s peace to envelop them.