It’s not a secret that the last couple rounds of treatment kicked my booty. Both physically and mentally I really struggled. I struggled to keep my energy up with my kids, I struggled with identity (Who am I if I can’t meet the needs of my family?), I struggled feeling like a burden to everyone around me. Y’all I threw myself an A+ pity party. Just ask my friends. Bless them. We have been in survival mode since December and I was rushing to find purpose and meaning when it just wasn’t time. It was my time to grieve.

I’ve been meditating on Psalm 30 for a couple weeks. Praying to understand what “joy in the morning” means. Really means. Not the cute Sunday school version, but the gritty, raw version.

I still don’t have a complete answer. But I do know today I got a taste of it.

“If it’s not good, then He’s not done, no He’s not done with it yet. There will be joy in the morning. ” Tauren Wells

Below are before and after pictures of what my legs looked back in December/January and what they look like today.

Today I had my end of treatment (EOT) PET scan which confirmed a “complete response”. Remission. Treatment for this part is over. It’s done. It’s time to rest.

Praise Jesus

This war isn’t over, but this battle is. I am trying to do less complaining and more listening as I learn how to digest what I’ve been chosen to endure. There’s a time for grief and there’s a time for healing.

We officially have 4-6 weeks before I have to start thinking about stem cell transplant. You won’t hear much from me during this respite as I am trying to regain some time I lost with my family these last few months.

I’m eternally grateful for each one of you. Each person who prayed, brought us a meal, took my kids to playdates, reached out or sent support. Yall have been the literal hands and feet and Jesus and that cannot be denied. The Mahans couldn’t have done it without you. I hope you know how appreciated and loved by us you are. We cannot wait to pour back in to you when we are able.

Upcoming Important Dates:

June 26th– Stem Cell Transplant Initial meeting

Thank you for being a part of OUR healing journey,

Danielle, Cullen, Jacob, Annie and Emily