Rick’s Story

Site created on March 7, 2022

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Rick Araskog

I had my 18th month post transplant appointment on Friday, April 5th. We were there most of the day,  a bone marrow biopsy,  a bone density scan, pulmonary test, five more childhood vaccines, blood draw and doctor exam. Everything went extremely well and nothing but good news. We did have to wait for the biopsy results which we just got. Results; The BMBx report showed no evidence of AML. MRD (minimal residual disease) test was negative. NPM1 (the mutation that I had) was not detected. Your chimerism’s both in the bone marrow and the blood showed 100% donor. You may not understand all this, however, it's my first perfect report card,, my donor must be pretty smart!  LOL

I have an appointment at the U of M Fairview at the end of May.  Dr. Grover will determine how often I need to have my blood drawn and visits throughout the summer.  I have my two year post transplant appointments in October at Moffitt. 

The past two years have been a life changing event for us. Many of you have commented that you didn't understand how we could have so much faith & positive outlook. While this made us feel extremely good and encouraged, it also made us reflect on how & why this was happening. Overall I would say we are pretty positive thinking people but not this much and for sure not our faith! So how did it happen and how can others benefit from understanding this? You have all been here for us, in support & prayer and now it is our turn to pray & support all of you!

Most important, you need to recognize and be willing to make some changes, be willing to take the time and put some effort into it. I'm sure most of you remember all the miracles and God moments that happened to us throughout this season. Here's what worked for us, however you just need to find what works for you.

Rest & be still, take 15 minutes or more everyday,. Whatever you put in your mind is what you get out. Any positive, uplifting & inspirational messages, music, podcast, etc. We use the Glorify app https://share.glorify-app.com/RICK7h1c   This has daily devotionals, reflections and daily bonuses. You can also check out the Bible App by YouVersion.com.  https://j794q.app.goo.gl/Hb69RBTd1ggrj2wz9
It has the verse of the day, scripture, prayers, reading plans and more that can fit your needs and/or interests.

When possible, try to work in daily relaxation/biofeedback or Sherrie's version, go to the pool. Again listen to any positive, uplifting & inspirational message and/or music. I would usually listen to Christian pop or upbeat worship music. Here are a few options; SXM The Message channel 63 or Amazon music-Divine Sound radio. Find something that you enjoy and is calming.

They say the average person has 50,000 thoughts each day with 60-70% of them being negative thoughts. It will take some time and effort to change that but we are living proof that it can happen. 60- 90% of doctor visits are stress related.

Life is like a camera,
FOCUS on WHAT MATTERS the MOST, CAPTURE what MAKES YOU HAPPY,
DEVELOP FROM the NEGATIVES &
IF THINGS DON'T WORK OUT... always take another shot!

Check out this book by Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life, What on earth am I here for!

To live a life of peace & freedom we need to submit our life to Jesus, to God's will not ours. Our bodies & minds can't heal if we are always worried & fearful, let it go and give it to God! You've Got This!
Thanks for being there for us so now we are here for you! Call, text, email or bless us with a visit in MN or FL.

Love ya all, Blessings - Rick & Sherrie 

Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Rick Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Rick's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top