Pam,
I think I have to disagree with you (a first!) on your statement that
ferrets won't survive a second insulinoma surgery.  Dr. Judi Bell has
told me of a couple of ferrets who had surgery twice and survived.
 
I'm sure that many factors need to be considered - condition of the
ferret most likely being the main one.  I'm not sure that I would consider
a second surgery myself, since quality of life is very important - do
we really want to live to 120???!!! (just an example - not a comparison
of ferret vs human age).
 
I DO agree with you on the $800 - it can be done for considerably less
even when including traveling and hotel money!!!!  Mandy's insulinoma
surgery (including 4 days in the hospital with fluids, repeat glucose
readings, and meds) was under $200.  When I've quoted my vet's fees,
some people think he's giving me a break, but I've talked to him about
this and he says that's what he charges.  He may be uncharacteristically
low (after all, THIS IS NEW YORK), but $800 sounds really HIGH!!
 
Debbie Riccio
WNYFLFA
Rochester, NY
[Posted in FML issue 1209]