Tomorrow Cullen and I leave for my first round of chemotherapy at the Mayo Clinic. Despite the snow’s best efforts I was able to get all my pre-chemotherapy appointments accomplished last week. Shout out to my dentist who not only DIDN’T cancel my appointment due to weather but rather saw me earlier in the day and then stayed late after they closed the office to make sure I was completely taken care of. Chemotherapy puts patients at higher risk of infection and inflammation so dental work needs to be done before chemo starts.

Friday morning I had my port placed. Port-a-caths are used in lieu of IVs for chemotherapy treatments or blood work. It’s a fairly simple yet necessary procedure. Besides some substantial soreness and limited mobility yesterday, I am healing ok.

Thank you to all of those who have asked for ways you can support us throughout this journey. It’s a marathon, not a sprint and every aspect of our village helps. Even though I am an unpaid primary caregiver (i.e. I don’t bring in additional income) there are going to be burdens associated with my inability to care and manage our home and children in the way I could before. Below are tangible ways you can join the village.

Meals and Childcare: link below

https://www.giveinkind.com/inkinds/F8Q8I6Y/support-for-the-mahan-family-

Additional childcare expenses, help with home cleanings, miscellaneous travel expenses: Venmo: @Danielle-Maurer

Stores we typically get groceries from: Kroger, Publix, Target or Walmart

Gift Cards that are always appreciated: Starbucks, Door Dash, Panera, Chick fil A

Things our children love: Pizza, crafts, Bluey, board games, Disney characters. The girls love all things princess, Jacob loves all things ninja

https://www.skyzone.com/nashville/

https://www.shininglightgym.com

If you would like to send something to the house please reach out to me via phone or instagram and I’ll be happy to provide you with our home address.

As always above all else we covet your thoughts, prayers and if you’re able and willing, registering with https://bethematch.org

Thank you for being a part of my healing journey

Danielle