Terry Mikkelson

 Doreen has asked that I write Terry's story, as I know it, because going down this journey again is just too hard for her. I will do my best to tell you what I know, to give you some idea of what has happened to bring them to the place they are today.

Let me first say that Doreen and family have done EVERYTHING to help Terry recover. There have been hours of research, multiple medical treatments and hundreds of miles traveled in an effort to help find a cure. They have always been hopeful that the next treatment would be THE ONE!

Terry's journey started about 5 years ago. After much time and testing, it was determined that Terry had contracted Lymes disease. Lymes has many symptoms; but individually they do not immediately point to the disease so getting a direct diagnosis was not easy..

Fast forward through the past few years of doctoring, hospitalization, traditional treatment, alternative treatment -  It has been a difficult process but nothing could bring Terry back to his previous joyful self.

Today, Terry is living in Bel Rae Senior Living in Mounds View, MN, where the kind staff takes good care of him. Terry does not talk much but does respond with eye contact when something triggers a memory for him now and then.

Doreen spends time with Terry every day. He responds to her with kisses and hugs and it's easy to see that his love for her remains deep and strong. Terry and Doreen dance regularly. Just the other day Doreen told me they went to the commons area where they were having an 'oldies' dance and she and Terry danced for 45 minutes!!

Terry likes to walk so he is active in the center where the other residents know and love him.  His family visits him often.   
While there is no hope for a cure now, Terry is being well cared for in this part of his journey and is so greatly loved by those around him. 

Written with love...........Lyn Erickson