To my friend Ronnie DiComo:
 
>As some of you know, my precious little Norman died a few days ago, after
>several weeks of fighting off a bacterial infection.  Although the
>infection won possession of his body, Norm's spirit is very much alive and
>being nourished by the love of his wonderful human and ferret friends.
 
    Ronnie - I am sorry to have heard of Norman's passing.  BIG had
mentioned Norman's case a few weeks ago - this is truly an unusual case.
Severe bacterial infections like this are not common in normal, healthy
ferrets.
 
    I wanted to extend my condolences (as I wish I could to all who lose
their furry friends), as I remember a card that you sent after the passing
of our beloved ferret, Oscar.  That gesture meant a lot to Colleen and I in
a difficult time, so I wanted to return it in part today.
 
    A lot of warm thoughts are finding their way to Norman these days, and
I certainly hope that you are getting your share of them.  It is most
assuredly a trying time, but one that hopefully will pass quickly.  We
grieve, and we move on, because there are many more ferrets who need our
love and caring.
 
    Colleen and I send our warmest regards and prayers for your during
this time.
 
All the best,
 
Bruce Williams
[Posted in FML issue 1333]