Shelly and Dan as they fight cancer

Hi, my name is Letitia and I am Shelly (Chitwood) Ashwood’s cousin.

As most of her family and friends know, in 2014, Shelly lost her first husband, Mark to a medical emergency while he slept. Devastated and committed to motherhood for their daughter Shelly refused to enter the dating scene. After 7 years, and in an act of matchmaking by his sisters, Shelly was introduced to Dan. Dan was a widower as well and a kind, loving man of God. The two quickly realized how special they each are and were crazy about each other. They were engaged after a couple months of dating and scheduled their small wedding for August 2021. A few weeks before their wedding date, Dan was shocked to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. He received a good prognosis and treatment plan from doctors and they moved forward in their plans for marriage. Dan was able to have surgery and begin radiation one month after their wedding. He has done well in his fight and ongoing recovery.

Earlier this year though Shelly began to have a decline in her health and physical abilities. Several people asked in May why she was walking with a walker as young and healthy as she appeared to be. After many doctor visits, tests, x-rays, blood work and mis-diagnosis a CT finally revealed that Shelly has also been living with cancer. This cancer appears to have started as a tumor in her bladder, was not caught early and has metastasized to other organs, spine and lymph nodes throughout her body. Her prognosis presents a difficult and challenging journey.

A journey they do not face alone and they have all the faith and courage it will require.

But, Dan and Shelly need all the prayers, support, encouragement and outpouring from their friends, family and loved ones.

Medical costs and understanding of the financial needs are not fully known. But we know it will be a relief to start receiving some support for the days and weeks they have already missed work and for the days ahead. For those who have asked how to help and not known what to do, consider this opportunity now to bless them and relieve some of the stress and fear associated with Shelly’s sudden inability to work and the many days Dan will need to take off to be with her.

Above all please continue speaking life and praying for the mercy of God over this family. Thank you for showering them with love and keeping them in your prayers.

For those who know how private they are, this info is shared with permission. All funds going directly to them.