Grand Forks Woman Receives Kidney From Husband
Aubray Peterson's transplant from her husband Logan comes as she manages polycystic kidney disease, a condition that affects about half a million Americans.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Philanthropy
Aubray Peterson of Grand Forks received a kidney transplant from her husband, Logan, after being diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Doctors at Mayo Clinic recommended the transplant before dialysis became necessary.
Why it matters
PKD is a hereditary condition that affects about half a million people in the United States, and living donation can spare patients the wait and burden of dialysis. Peterson's family history of kidney problems underscores how the disease can run through generations.
The transplant follows a family history in which Aubray's mother received a kidney 23 years ago and currently takes three anti-rejection medicines, while Aubray will take one. The record does not yet show how the new kidney will perform over time.
The players
Mayo Clinic
A nonprofit academic medical center based in Rochester, Minnesota, known for its transplant and kidney care programs.
Aubray Peterson
A Grand Forks resident with polycystic kidney disease who received a kidney from her husband.
Logan Peterson
Aubray Peterson's husband, who was found to be a compatible kidney donor.
Becky Ellefson
Aubray Peterson's mother, who received a kidney transplant 23 years ago.
The details
Logan was tested and found to be a compatible donor, and he immediately wanted to give Aubray his kidney. Aubray will stay at Mayo Clinic before moving to a transplant home for at least two weeks.
Timeline
About 10 years ago: Becky Ellefson noticed a kidney infection, prompting concern about PKD.
23 years ago: Becky Ellefson received a kidney transplant.
Post-surgery: Aubray will stay at a transplant home for at least two weeks after Mayo Clinic.
Market Landscape
The case reflects a multigenerational pattern in which Becky Ellefson's kidney transplant 23 years ago was followed by a new need in her daughter, a sequence that points to how inherited PKD can recur across a family. Living donation within families is one route that recipients in this situation use to avoid waiting for or relying on dialysis.
Families with a history of PKD may wish to discuss genetic screening and early kidney monitoring with their physicians. Living donation requires a compatibility test for the donor and a post-operative stay before the recipient moves to a transplant home.
The takeaway
Hereditary kidney disease can affect multiple generations, so knowing your family history can help you seek testing and treatment sooner. Living donation is one option that families are discussing with their care teams.
Further reading
For more on giving within the community, explore Philanthropy coverage from Grand Forks.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KVRR Local News.
