We are creating this blog to keep everyone informed on John's journey to get well.
On Monday, September 21, we took John to see his pediatrician because he was having trouble breathing. When his breathing didn't improve the next day, his doctor ordered an x-ray where they found a mass in his chest. He was immediately admitted to Children's Hospital in Oakland for further testing. On Wednesday morning, he went into surgery where a team of 5 doctors removed fluid from around his heart, took biopsies of the mass in his chest, removed bone marrow, spinal fluid, and inserted a broviac tube which will be used for administering all of his medications. It was a miracle that they were able to assemble this team of doctors so quickly to do all of the tests at once. He stayed in ICU for observation and monitoring.
On Wednesday evening, doctors gave him the preliminary diagnosis of lymphoblastic t cell lymphoma. They assured us that this type of cancer is very treatable and very beatable, and they expect John to make a full recovery. However, he still has a long road ahead. He will remain in the hospital for about 3 weeks. Doctors have already administered chemotherapy into his spinal column and will continue to give him chemotherapy during this time.
We are hopeful that he will be moved to the 5th floor which is the Oncology Floor where he will remain for the duration of his hospital stay.
Once John goes home, he will continue with his treatment. He has a broviac line which will allow us to administer his medicine from home. Doctors predict John's course of treatment will last 2 years. He will not be returning to school this year.
John has been incredibly brave throughout this process. He is excited to get out of ICU into his own room, where he'll be able to move around more and we can have a home base at the hospital.
Communication is often difficult in the hospital so we welcome any messages on this website. We will continue to post information on his treatment and progress. We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family and we appreciate the overwhelming outpour of love, prayers, and sentiments from all. This weekend we are going to spend lots of family time with Jimmy and Caroline at the hospital to get them more comfortable with seeing John and the days to come. Hopefully, we will get into a better routine in the next week, but for now we are taking it moment by moment.
With Gratitude,
The Ricksen Family
John has been so courageous and so strong, and so have you guys! I love you and we will be here with you throughout this journey.
ReplyDeleteJohnny, you are the bravest kid I know. I want you to know that the Griffin family will be praying for you and that you are going to be great.
ReplyDeleteWe are sending out good thoughts and prayers for Johnny and for your family. Love and strength to you all.
ReplyDeleteThe Simpson and Fisher families continue our prayers for Johnny and your whole family. Mollie and Mike, you are all in our hearts 24 x 7 and we are here for you. We love you.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the information. We literally just found out from Claire that Johnny was in the hospital 5 minutes before we got the email. We wish you strength, hope, love and a complete recovery with all our hearts and souls. Love, the Tarkoffs
ReplyDeleteWe will keep praying for wise doctors, just the right treatments and healing for Johnny!
ReplyDeleteLove, from your cousin's cousins!
Megan, Ryan, Shannon & Lauren Griffin
"Nothing is impossible with God" Luke 1:37
We send all of you much strength and positive thoughts. You are in our hearts. We are here for you for any type of support or help you might need.
ReplyDeleteWith much love,
The Berkman's
All of our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are here if you ever need anything while Johnny recovers.
ReplyDeleteDear John,
ReplyDeleteI hope you feel better very soon. I will be thinking of you all year. I am so glad you are my good friend.
Love-- Madi
Dear John,
I had to go to Children's Hospital last year and they took really good care of me. They are nice. Get better soon.
Love from Sara
Our thoughts and prayers are with you-Please let us know if we can help in any way-We will always be just around the corner-
ReplyDeleteWith much love, The Childers
You are all in our hearts and on our minds. We are wishing John a complete recovery. Anything, anytime; whatever you needs, just holler.
ReplyDeleteWe send big, warm, comforting hugs to you all. The Lehman Family
Dear Ricksen Family,
ReplyDeleteStay strong, our prayers are with you every minute. We are here for anything you need. Give John a big hug for us. Lots of love and prayers, The Nelsons
Mollie and Mike,
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear about John and know that the strength your family has, will give him everything he needs to recovery quickly. Life has given John a nasty curveball and he is going to slam this out of the park soon! Our spirits are with you. The Hagglunds
Ricksen Family,
ReplyDeleteOur Hearts and Prayers are with you all. Your son John will be in great hands with Oakland's Children's Hospital. Mollie and Mike whatever you need we are here for you and your family .
With faith and grace, Barbara, Michael, Gabbi, Max and Tatie
To All the Ricksen and Harrington Families... Our thoughts and prayers are with you always... looking forward to seeing Johnny's beautiful smile soon. : )
ReplyDeleteMuch love...Henderson Family
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteJohn
ReplyDeleteYou are a super-star and we are thinking about you every moment. Mollie and Mike, we love you so much and are here for you guys if you need anything at all. We are looking forward to seeing John and all of the Ricksens next week. We love you and will see you soon.
Love Geoff and Kelly
We are thinking of you and praying for you during this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteThank you for keeping us in your web of communication. You are in our thoughts and prayers since we heard the news.
ReplyDeleteMike and Sarah Murphy
We send all of our love to John, and your whole family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Know how much people are thinking of you. Stay strong!
ReplyDeleteKia and Bill Conn
Mollie & Mollie~ You are all in our daily prayers. It sounds like you are in great hands at Children's. With your great faith, strength and courage you will make it through....we are here for you and will keep you in our hearts, thoughts and prayers!
ReplyDeleteThe Fellner Family
Sending positive,happy thoughts your way....We are here for anything you may need. With love from the Harris Family
ReplyDeleteP.S.
We love John's complete devotion to Cal! Hi Johnnie, from Brian Harris!
Dear Mollie and Mike,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for letting us all know how well your little Johnny is doing...what an amazing kid! But then...look at his wonderful parents and family. You are ALL in our hearts and prayers, and we hope that you feel in your hearts all of the love and prayerful thoughts that go out to you now and each day of Johnny's recovery.
We love you...Kathy and Ken Simpson
Hi John: This is Alec Garcia from Ms. Owen's class last year and my brother, Derrick. We just want you to feel better and get well soon so we can play kick ball again at school. We are also HUGE Cal fans and recommend you drink blue water so your pee isn't ugly stanfurd red:-(
ReplyDeleteAs Aunt Sheri Griffin shared earlier, we join as cousin's cousins in sending love, prayers, support and hugs from the southern california extended family to the northern california extended family. Mollie and Mike and team Ricksen are in our thoughts and prayers and we will stay the course with you. We are so blessed with extended family.
ReplyDeleteWith much love -
The Moretti's (Mike, Peggy, Matt and Kate)
Mike and Mollie~
ReplyDeleteOur hearts are heavy that you are going through this..our thoughts and prayers are with you all the way through this terrible journey. Much love...The Wall Family
Johnny is good, Johnny is great,
ReplyDeleteOn the court, there is no debate,
Super quick, with a shot that's all swish,
He loves to pass, to get the dish,
On the field, his glove grabs all,
At the plate, he blasts the ball,
Even in soccer, his kicks are strong,
It's as if Johnny can do no wrong,
And just like in sports, Johnny has no quit,
And he'll finish this game, perfectly fit!
Johnny - hang in there! You've got a great family behind you, not to mention too many friends to count! Nicholas sends you his best and can't wait to see you soon.
Ricksens! John is in our constant thoughts and prayers. Stay strong! Much love!
ReplyDeleteKeri and Dan Bartlett
We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if we can help in any way. The Dalton Family
ReplyDeleteMike, Mollie and Johnny,
ReplyDeleteWe see such a brave little guy in those pictures and we are so, so happy to hear that he is already putting up such a strong fight! We pray for Johnny's continued strength and bravery and the comfort of God's incredible love during the coming months. Our prayers are with you as his amazing parents who are the backbone of his journey to wellness. We are here should you need anything.Loved the funny story and look forward to being updated on his road to health again.
Love, Bob & Kate and family
We were so sorry to hear about what you have been going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. It sounds like he's on a quick road to recovery. Please let us know if there's anything we can do.
ReplyDeleteThe Taner Family
Hang in there, John! You have the strength and great attitude to beat this. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Your friend, Luke Rodriguez and "Coach" Omar, Lisa, Marco & Ellie Rodriguez.
ReplyDeleteJohn,
ReplyDeleteYou don't really know me. But I am a friend of your grandparents. My husband was just playing golf with your grandfather in Oregon. I also know your mommy.
I want you to know I am praying for you to have a speedy recovery. You are so strong and I must add HANDSOME.
I will be checking up on you periodically and hope we can be good blog friends. Hugs and Kisses, Jan vitti Rubel
Johnny Ricksen is the bravest and coolest kid in town! With your brave spirit and the spirit of your Mom, Dad, and family, you will be home playing soccer again.
ReplyDeleteWhat do you listen to on your Ipod? We need some new sounds. Take care, buddy, and we love you lots. Kathy and John Hamilton
Dear Johnny,
ReplyDeleteI hate stanford red too. GO CAL!
Cal beats Stanford, and u will beat cancer.
I know u dont know me, but I am one of Jimmy's classmates, and I hope you're gonna be home soon.
from: Jocie Purcell and family
Dear Johnny and Ricksen Family, We are wishing John the best of health. He is so brave ! And such a loyal Cal fan through thick and thin. Please know we are here to help in anyway we possibly can. You all are in our prayers and thoughts. The Veverka Family
ReplyDeleteTo my dearest gorgeous ricksen clan...... i just received this email and I am just sooo happy to hear that John he is already off to a strong recovery! But so sorry he has a to go through this horribly yucky time. Life can certainly throw us some curve balls but no doubt with the strength and grace of a family like yours one can move mountains and beat any obstacle!
ReplyDeleteI am sending prayers, blessings and all my love!!!!!!! Amber Hindley
Hi Johnny,
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking of you everyday, buddy! You have been so strong and so brave! Keep it up and you will be out of the hospital soon! :)
Sending great BIG HUGS to you and your family!!! We love you, Karen, Scott, Georgia and Skip Hill
Hi Johnny, we miss you and we wish you were not in the hospital.We hope you are comfortable. Are the nurses nice? Can we come visit you? I know Caroline and Jimmy really miss you.
ReplyDelete-Love, Katie
Jonny get better we really miss you. You're doing great! Tons of people are wishing you were better and that you could be playing around with them. How do you feel? You're so brave. Hugs and kisses and our best wishes.
- Makenna
I HOPE YOU FEEL BETTER AND YOU CAN COME HOME AND PLAY SOON!!!
-Matthew Robert Millham
Hey pal
I really want to come and see you real soon. You are the best friend ever! I really mean it! You're such a good sports player. They world is so lucky to have a kid like you in it!
- Bennett
Mollie, Mike and John,
ReplyDeleteThe Griffin family sent Jill's news letter and your blog to us and we were so thankful to have the whole story as sad as it was....but the smiling face and the good sense of humor made us smile. We are praying for you all and know you will be home soon... with God's and the doctors' help,.....all well and happy.
Johnny and family,
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you all. We will be thinking of you through these next 3 weeks. Be tough just like we know you can be. When you are better we will take you to McCoveys again!!! Love the Coach Mike, Traci, Maddy (your biggest fan), Paige and Nick
Hey Johnnie-
ReplyDeleteWe haven't seen you since the wedding, but you're still the best ring bearer EVER :-) We hope that if you feel crummy, it will get better quickly, and that if you feel bored, that you will discover something really cool to do or learn. And, big hopes that you will be home really soon.
We send lots of hugs...
The Khashoggi Family
Johnny-- I'm so sorry to hear about what happened. I hope you feel better soon!!! Stay strong!! -- Caroline Tague
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear what you are all going through, especially Johnny. We are all saying our prayers that treatment goes smoothly and that Johnny has a quick recovery. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help. Lots of hugs, Molly Metheny Lewis and family
ReplyDeletePS....Go Bears!
Dear Johnny,
ReplyDeleteListen to the doctors we want to see you back on the field soon! The Titans need their bat boy! Make sure you ask for the game cube they can wheel it into your room.
From,
Tyler
The Peterson family sends their warmest thoughts and prayers to John and the rest of the Rickson family. I know those Rickson kids are TOUGH and that Jonn will battle through. Mike and Mollie, if you need anything at all, please call us. We would be so happy to help.
ReplyDeleteKen, Claire, Kathryn and Matt.
Dear Johny,
ReplyDeleteWe are keeping you in our prayers. Children's Hospital will take such good care of you and help you get better! You are so courageous, your whole family must be so proud of you!We are here for you if you need anything at all. God bless you! Love, The Melohn's
Dear Johnny,
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking of you and you are in our thoughts and prayers!!! Sending big hugs from
your cousins in Irvine.
Love, Candy, Roger and Adam
p.s. Go CAL
To all the Ricksons,
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We know Johny is as strong as a Cal Bear and wish him the very best on his road to being 100% healthy. Molly and Mike, if the Drakes can do anything to help please feel free to call us. With lots of love, Pam, H.B., Harrison and Katrina
Mike, Mollie and the Ricksen Family-- Steph and I will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers and we can't wait to see John back at Sleepy Hollow and back on the sports field, at Haas, Memorial etc. Loved the blue urine story.
ReplyDeleteJohn, as we were talking about the incredible events of your life in the last week, we couldn't help but be full of hope and encouragement. And these words from Jim Henson come to mind:
ReplyDeleteI believe that we form our own lives, that we create our own reality, and that everything works out for the best. I know I drive some people crazy with what seems to be ridiculous optimism but it has always worked out for me....
John, we have ridiculous optimism for your speedy recovery. You are a strong and ridiculously handsome boy! We hope you do some blogging so we can learn more about you.
Love, Carolyn and Mike Gwynn
To all the Ricksens
ReplyDeleteWe are so impressed by the courage and strength you have shown during the last week. No matter what, we know John will put a smile on our face. Hopefully, we can get rid of that red pee before the Big Game. Great to hear about the encouraging signs of progress with the first treatment. We will be with you throughout the journey.
Mark, Nicole, Emily, Matt and Luke Meredith
John, All of us at Camp Blue are thinking about you. Next time you come to Pinecrest you can have as many LairBurgers as you want on us plus ice cream. It is great to hear you are feeling better. All our love and GO BEARS! The Camp Blue Staff
ReplyDeleteDear Ricksen family,
ReplyDeleteThe Simo family send their thoughts and prayers your way. You can't be in better hands than at Children's. We wish Johnny a speedy recovery.
Paul and Elizabeth Simonetti
Dear Johnny and Ricksen Family,
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you every day as you travel this tough road. We know that you are tough as nails and will come through stronger than ever. Hang in there and GO BEARS!
Robin Dave Jessica Madison and Justin Alvarado
Hi Johnny,
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me but I work with your dad at Aon. I wanted to let you know that I am raising funds for the Luekemia and Lymphomia Society and running in the Nike Women's Marathon 10.18.09. I want to dedicate my fundraiser to you and let you know that I will be thinking about you while I am running. You are so strong and an inspiration to me. I pray that you have a speedy recovery. I will be keeping in touch with you.
Monica Rivera
Dear Johnny and Ricksen family:
ReplyDeleteWe are sending our love and prayers to you all. The photos of John on this blog are so inspiring, and his strong spirit shines through loud and clear. Please know that we are thinking of you every day and welcome absolutely any opportunity to help. With much love, Marci Pat Libby Ashley Kinsey & Gardner Dunne
Johnny and Family,
ReplyDeleteOur positive thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep up your amazingly strong spirit. We would love to help in any way...
Love, John, Tracey, Nick, Paige and Ryan
Hi John,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry that you have to go through this tough time. You are strong and a hard worker, so I know you will conquer this! I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. I love seeing you on this blog and I will visit it often and follow your progress. I am so happy that you have gotten such encouraging news so quickly!
Love, Mrs. Fend
Dear Johnny...We're so happy that you're feeling better and are looking forward to seeing you when you come home. P.S We'll watch out for Coco.....Love from all Schnugg family
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great work Johnny!!! Enjoy your new room. You and your amazing family are in our thoughts a prayers.
ReplyDeleteGo Bears!
Love, Jill (Hochadel), Dave and LeeAnne Austin
Hey Johnny: Thinking of you tonight and hope you are feeling better!!!!! Roger, Adam, Sadie (our poodle) and I are hoping today is a great day.
ReplyDeletePlan to tease our Stanford friends with what you said!!!!! Keep up your strong spirit. We are thinking of you.
love, Cand, Roger, and Adam
Mollie, Mike, Jimmie and Caroline,
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with all of you,
The Thorpe Family,
Candy, Roger and Adam
We are so happy to hear you are feeling better! Mackenzie will keep Ms. Owens up-to-date! Our Best, Matt, Tammy, Maddie, Mollie & Mackenzie
ReplyDeleteJohn and family
ReplyDeleteHang in there, stay strong--- and always believe. We are rooting for you and so is HE. We look forward to the chance to help in ANY way! John- to see your smiling face is an inspiration! Keep up the good work and you will be home soon.
Love,
The Lagomarsino Family
Sally, Greig, Will, Liv and John
Dear Mollie, Mike, Caroline and Jimmy,
ReplyDeleteplease give John a big hello from us and let him know that he is in our thoughts. He will hit this curve ball out the park and be stronger than ever. Please let us know if there is anything we can help with, no matter how simple it may seem.
Much love
Lyanne, Mare and Carter
hi john i know you'll get better soon.GO BEARS!
ReplyDeletefrom Carter Supple
Hi Johnny:
ReplyDeleteWe are so glad you have moved to your new room.
Keep up the good work. You and all your family are in our prayers.
Love, Candy, Roger and Adam
Dear Ricksen clan,
ReplyDeleteYou are all in our thoughts & prayers. So glad to hear that you are in a new room & in good hands. Johnny you are one brave kid and an insipiration. Stay strong!
-The Gilberd Family
Dear Michael, Mollie, Jimmy, Caroline and Johnny,
ReplyDeleteIt breaks our hearts to know what you have been faced with and we are going to continue holding lots of good thoughts and prayers for Johnny's full recovery. Johnny, I hope Cal can step it up a few notches and win for you this weekend! You are very brave and we will continue to look forward to your smiling face on the blog! You have lots of fans cheering you on!!!
Love,
Shari, Doug, Matthew and Gracie Huntington
Mike and Mollie,
ReplyDeleteI don't know what to say and I am in awe of your ability to put this blog together and keep everyone informed. But of course, as parents, you find amazing strength at times, especially when it comes to our very dear children. I have been saying prayers for you and your family.
And Johnny, you do not know me, but you are one incredible and fabulous boy...and one day, you will show the world what a super hero you are.
Love to all,
Deborah
hello ricksens,
ReplyDeletethe eversoles send all of their love and prayers your way. the blog is great, we appreciate being included in the updates. we are ready to help in anyway.
john we hope you have a great time watching cal beat sc this weekend !!!
love, sheila, scott, riley, alyson, annie and alex
dear johnny I can't wate to play baseball with you again. your blog is so cool. maybe we will be white muels again. and go bears! from declan
ReplyDeleteThe Curran Family is praying for you all! Stay strong Johnny!
Go Bears!
Mike, Sara, Charlotte and Declan Curran
Hi Ricksens,
ReplyDeleteMelissa just shared the news with me and I am sorry that you have to go through this. I hope that you continue to have strength through the many ups and downs. My friend shared this with me when we were in the hospital recently and it gave me comfort, I hope it helps you.
This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen
Hang in there and we will be thinking of you.
Love,
The Wallins
(Katherine, Chris, Davis, Ryan and Elle)
Dear Johnny,
ReplyDeleteWith your strong family, many generations of dear friends praying for you, and a team of great doctors making you well, you're going to beat this thing. Just imagine that Jason Kidd is your point guard with assists to you to win...you've got that much faith behind you.
Your whole family is in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers.
Chip, Jane, Ali, Emily and Charlie Wiser
Dear Johnny,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Jack and I am 7 1/2 and a second grader at St. Isidore School. I just beat Leukemia which is a blood cancer. I know you will beat cancer too! I was diagnosed at 3 1/2 and finished my chemo this past December. A lot of our friends know you here in Danville and want us to meet! My family would love to help your family. I have a baby sister and a brother who is almost 10. I will look forward to meeting you when you are ready to have a friend who can teach you all about how to feel your best when your feeling your worst. Be brave and strong and know that many people are praying for you!
Love, Your new cancer friend Jack and family!
Hey Johnny:
ReplyDeleteYou are just about the toughest and bravest dude I know. And you have "nine lives." You proved it to me by walking away from your spectacular Razor crash with barely a whimper. So, I know you are going to kick butt on this thing in a way that makes us all proud to be able to call you our friend. I can't wait to have you back helping me out in the dugout. You GO, Boy!!
Sincerely,
John McGonigle
You all are in our thoughts and prayers, especially John. What a brave boy! Sending your family well wishes and love.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Our positive thoughts and prayers are with you. Salar is in Jimmy’s class and he was really worried for Johnny, but then when he realized that Johnny is in Children’s Hospital he felt a lot better because he has been a regular patient in that hospital in cardiology section since he was born. Johnny you are in good hands and with your Great Spirit and wonderful family you will conquer this. Keep up your amazingly strong spirit, we believe in GOD’s energy in every human being and his energy in you will help you to defeat this and win it, because you are a winner Johnny. We would love to help in any way we can. Lots of love to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteXOXO Salar and Family
To the Ricksen family... you are in our thoughts and prayers. We send John best wishes for continued strength and courage throughout the journey ahead. Thank you for sharing the photos and news of John's progress via this blog. We are so impressed by how brave he is in facing this challenge.
ReplyDeleteThe Patten Family... Lesley, Marc, Andrew and Isabella
Hi john it's thalia! from School I hope you get well soon. How are you feeling?
ReplyDeleteI hope i see you soon. from thalia.
Lots of love and good thoughts are coming your way from Colorado!
ReplyDeleteDiane and Shari Lynn Halden
Hi John-John! I love reading your blog! I am so glad you are doing better! I wanted to let you know that my coach for water polo recently got done playing for Cal! Every time I see her, I think of you. GO CAL! Can't wait to see you! XOXO
ReplyDeleteHey Johnny-
ReplyDeleteYour blog is amazing--just like you. We are sending lots of love your way. Hope to see your smiling face back in the neighborhood very soon!
Love,
The Sawrey-Kubicek Family
To the Ricksen Family,
ReplyDeleteOur love, prayers and positive thoughts are with you.
Beth Croom Sedway and Family
hi, johnny,you don't know us but we know your grandma and grandpa and geoff and kelly. we've been hearing how strong and brave you are and we wanted you to know we're thinking about you.
ReplyDeletejudi and harold street
Hi Johnny,
ReplyDeleteIt was so nice to see you at Papa's special service yesterday with that infectious smile on your face. I had a feeling you wouldn't want to wear the "Dribble for the Cure" bracelet with the BRUIN colors on it! In our house, red and gold are not allowed!!! Anyhow, we hope today went well and that you will be back home resting tomorrow.
Love,
Shari, Doug, Matthew and Gracie
xxoo