Hello. I would sure appreciate prayers and good thoughts that sweet Lucy Lou Laboda is finding her way to the beautiful field at the Rainbow Bridge and is being reunited with her beloved buddies Tarzan and Petey, friends Gadzook, Wally, Schroeder Boat, and Percy, acquaintence Squeek (and his siblings Erb and the two un- named kits), and also Claudette, whose heart Lucy tried for many years to win. Oh, and big sweethearted old cat Wellington. Lucy's red fur glistened like golden diamonds afloat in a warm, soft ocean during a flaming sunset. Her sqeek was high and gentle, fur soft as a bunny's, spirit light as down, and her personality was rolled in a sweet sensitive femininity that was cloaked in a tomboy suit as she dashed like a mad-hatted rabbit through the grass and pursued athletic feats with the highest of prowess. She loved daily dashes to hide many squeeky balls and her special soft balls "Tail-head" and "Tail Fur". And she loved Dad Janos' turkey goo. She seemed so strong, but was also filled with tumors, including a liver tumor bigger than her head, and pancreatic and adrenal tumors, all which were removed in a stunning surgery by her fantastic vet. Yet still we lost her post-surgery, amidst all the grief and guilt and anger of those who try their darnest to save these precious, sweet critters.... and lose. A special thanks to Lucy's Aunt Kate who held her during long car trips to the vet, and helped with post-op care, and to Lucy's fantastic vet. And thank you very much also to those with whom I have already personally corresponded and who have sent cards and notes. With Lucy's loss I am down from a one-time business of ten (most who came down with ECE when Lucy arrived) to my tiny, old sweet-hearted and still feisty little runt albino Minnie, who is over eight and was expected to show symtoms of heart problems at four or so, due to a congenital murmur that sounds like a washing machine. Insulinomic, balding, and nearly blind, sweet Minnie still appreciates life and getting outdoors for a walk, though is clearly missing her sister Lucy. With Lucy's passing, the passing of my last strong mad-dashing ferret, I have felt all at once the grief of losing nine sweet fur kids (over so many years) that we have tried so hard to save - from congenital defects, heart problems, lymphoma, adrenal, insulinoma, and various lengthily-named tumors. God how I miss them all right now, and I pray that they are together at the Bridge or romping through night skies as the brightest of twinkling stars! Please, sweet Sandee, look for my sweet-hearted soft-fured redheaded Lucy Lou. She passed away August 14, about 11am PST (too young at only 6-1/2 years!) so is hopefully already well ensconced in your flock. She is deceptively tomboy in her daredevil romping, but please remember that she is truly very shy and sensitive and can get very scared. So please handle her with kid gloves up there, even if she seems not to need it. I shall always miss your sweet high-voiced peeping little Lucy. Your mom Lynn, dad Janos, and sister Minnie Sweet, your auntie Kate, and your wonderful nephs, Madison and Monty. Goodnight sweet Lucy, Goodnight, until we meet again! Lucy Lou Laboda, who spent too short time as our lovely, beloved little earthling girl February 14, 1996 to August 14, 2002 [Posted in FML issue 3879]