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Mason's Healing Helpers

On January 16th, 2018 our sweet 6 year old Mason Collard was diagnosed with a very rare brain tumor which we found out was cancer.  Masons illness was not an expected event and came on very suddenly.  Mason, Rachel and Shaun have been living at the Minneapolis Children's Hospital since the day that his tumor was discovered.  After removal of the first tumor more tumors were found.  Mason has endured multiple surgeries and procedures since January 16th and we are blessed to be able to be coming close to the radiation portion of this journey. Situations like this can throw a normal family into a whirlwind of confusion and a state of emergency.  Each parent was able to take FMLA leave from work (with some vacation pay) but that is now coming to an end.  Mason requires around the clock care.  Because of Mason's needs it was necessary for one parent to be accessible to Mason at all times.  A decision was made that Rachel would be that parent.  In the meantime Shaun has returned to his job at the VA.  Like most families Rachel and Shaun deeply relied on their dual income to cover "normal" household expenses.    On top of losing one income there are a lot of expenses that are out of the norm when you have a loved one that requires this care.  We have been fortunate that the Minneapolis Children's Hospital has provided parking and food vouchers along with wonderful meals at the Ronald McDonald house.  We are hopeful that in the next few weeks Mason and Rachel will be moving down to the Mayo Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.  While there, Rachel will not have access to many of the things that she has had being close to family in Minneapolis.  We expect for their expenses to increase in order for Rachel to be able to provide for herself while staying with Mason (in-patient) for approximately 8 weeks.  We also anticipate a lot of financial pressure on the journey to get Mason home and healthy.  In other words, we don't yet know when Rachel can return to work. Our family takes pride in being givers and helpers.  We have appreciated all of the sweet gifts, letters, meals, visitors and support thus far.  Many of you have asked when and how you can help.  This is the time that Rachel and Shaun will need financial help more than ever.  Any amount that you can donate to their family will be greatly appreciated.  In the spirit of our family, we promise to pay it forward when we have the opportunity.  Thank you all.

Here is the link to Mason's caringbridge site to read his journal.

https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/masoncollard
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $200 
    • 5 yrs
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Organizer and beneficiary

Sara Corwin
Organizer
Burnsville, MN
Rachel Peterson
Beneficiary

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