This is difficult to write. First, because it is a grief that can't be shared - a grief so large I am left cold and empty. And second, because the words would not come. Sometimes an animal companion comes along that makes you better than you are - he makes you do things you thought you would never do and he shows you that yes, one person can make a difference. Tyson was that kind of companion. He made me want to do more - for ferrets and for the people who love ferrets. He was my reason for doing all that I do, all that I've done. He was my light. He was my drive, my determination, my inspiration. He started the spark and fanned it to a flame and it was he who kept me going. Ten days ago, in the wee hours of Saturday morning on Dec 3rd, while laying in a blanket curled up by my side, Tyson left my life. The light is gone. I am dark. To say that I am lost now is a bit of an understatement. I am trying to stay focused on the too-many projects I have going, the physical therapy on my elbow, Christmas, and coping with the death of beloved member of my husband's family. I will somehow muddle through all of this but I know losing Tyson has changed me and I will never be the same. The reason that I am writing this is because Tyson did have some friends and they deserve to know he is gone. He received a Christmas Card from his one-true-love Bibi which he never saw and two others addressed to Tyson, Hope and Einstein. Friends deserve to know the truth. Tyson is gone. Judy Cooke Co-Director IFC Support Our Shelters [Posted in FML issue 5089]