FANTASTIC! How One Word Can Shape Your Destiny

Tragedy changed Kirk Axelson's life forever when his wife Donna and her sister were killed in an automobile accident December 2002, an accident that also seriously injured their daughter. Kirk was already struggling with addictions to crystal meth (methamphetamine) and pornography. He now had to raise his and Donna’s two children, run their company, and deal with his addictions while enveloped in grief. Kirk’s final battle to shape his destiny had begun. FANTASTIC! How One Word Can Shape Your Destiny is the story of that battle.

As a young boy, he endured parental abuse and sexual molestation. During kindergarten his parents discovered he couldn’t read nor speak very well (later diagnosed as dyslexia.) Called stupid and bullied in school, Kirk suffered from low self-esteem, fearing people and life in general.

After several suicide attempts and his best-friend’s death, Kirk met his wife Donna. On their 10th wedding anniversary he decided to score some cocaine to bring excitement into their marriage. That was the start of a downward spiral of a drug and pornography addiction. After Donna’s death, Kirk was forced to confront his addictions.

Then he discovered empowering words that changed his life. The word “Fantastic!” led to a renewed spiritual faith, and everything changed. FANTASTIC! How One Word Can Shape Your Destiny is an inspiring story of a man’s journey from shame, addiction and self sabotage, to a victorious breakthrough, and a new life where every day is Fantastic Friday.

“A raw and honest memoir, fearless in its expression. A rare thing.”
-Kathleen McGowan, New York Times Best-Selling Author of The Expected One

“Kirk Axelson’s deeply moving personal story of how his life spun out of control is unforgettable! His impassioned fight to save himself and the lives of his children is the story of a heroic journey. Whether he’s speaking to adults or teenagers, his transformative message and enthusiasm will inspire them to make the positive changes they desire for their own lives.”

-Jonathan Judge, Program Manager, Colorado Meth Project

“This was not an easy book to read. But then, grief, addiction, and recovery are not easy. Here is a person who found himself in deep despair, and through the power of positive, persistent optimism, faith, and a spiritual practice to underpin it, found his way back. Mr. Axelson shows immense courage in his candor and true bravery in his unflinching commitment to getting well. This book is fantastic any day of the week.”

-Lynn Williamson, Past President, American Society of Interior Designers, Colorado Chapter

“Anyone struggling with the impact of addiction will find Kirk’s journey compelling and hard to put down. His honesty and detailed storytelling of the desperation of addiction and its insanity is gripping. You will celebrate along with Kirk as he walks the hot coals and finds his new ‘F’ word that keeps his life on track. Find your own way to a fantastic life today.”

-Rev. Robert “Ras” A. Smith, Spirituality in Recovery, Mile Hi Church

"A truly fantastic read, Kirk Axelson's book grabbed me from the first paragraph. He takes us on a difficult but inspiring journey into pain, hiding, and shame, and back again. Fantastic reminds us of the power of connecting, of honoring our little giant inside and being true to ourselves. Words do make a difference. Reading Fantastic can be a life changer!"

-Jim Thomas, LMFT, Director, Colorado Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy, Director Emeritus, Denver Family Institute

“Fantastic is an invitation and inspiration to take your own hero’s journey. Kirk shares his life and times, as well as principles and practices that can help you to heal, empower you, and guide you to embarking on your journey to a life that is whole, fulfilling, and yes, fantastic!”

-Dr. James Rouse, Founder Optimum Wellness Media