Swansea Boy, 4, Battles Rare ‘Childhood Dementia’ as Family Races to Fund Potential Treatment
Swansea, Wales – November 12, 2025 – A four-year-old boy from Swansea is living with sanfilippo Syndrome, a rare and devastating genetic disorder often called “childhood dementia.” tate McDaid’s family is urgently fundraising for a potentially life-altering clinical trial, while simultaneously working to raise awareness of the condition that affects both Tate and his parents as carriers of the gene.
Sanfilippo Syndrome progressively destroys nerve cells in the brain, leading to a decline in cognitive and physical abilities. Currently, there is no cure. Tate was diagnosed with the condition, which impacts approximately one in 50,000 births, and his mother, Tammy McDaid, describes the coming year as “critical” as symptoms begin to manifest. The family hopes to secure a place for Tate on an upcoming clinical trial offering a potential treatment, but the costs associated with participation are considerable.
Tammy McDaid explained that if Tate is not accepted into the trial, the funds raised will be used to create lasting memories through travel. “We want to take him to as many countries as possible,” she said.
Ahead of World Sanfilippo awareness Day on November 16, 2025, McDaid is also focused on educating the public about the syndrome, highlighting that both she and Tate’s father unknowingly carry the gene responsible for the disorder. This means there was a 25% chance with each pregnancy of thier child inheriting the condition.
The family’s fundraising efforts aim to not only provide Tate with access to potential treatment but also to shed light on a rare disease that impacts families worldwide.
