Dear FML, I wanted to tell you all how grateful I am for all your letters and well wishes. I am even more thankful to those who shared with me the motivation they found in my post to test their ferrets and the measures taken to help protect shelters as well. In the time that has passed since Neelix's death, we've had an absolute ocean of information to sort through. One of the most important things I have learned is how valuable this community is. It made me feel better to recieve words of sympathy and encouragement, sure... But more importantly I found the soliace of education. People who live with this disease in their home reached out to me with their words of wisdom to educate me. People who did not realize what ADV could mean to their lives, wrote to me to tell me they took steps to learn and educate themselves and their friends. I know that by my email count, over 100 ferrets are undergoing testing for the ADV antibodies. How amazing is this? Its flooring to me. My family has learned that cleaning comes to a whole new level... We use Madacide in our home now. Parvocide on clothing and shoes and carpet. I now take every precaution possible to keep those around us healthy. One thing we do NOT do... we are not going to shut ourselves off from this community. I learned that many people do. I think this is a travesty. I find it a shame that there are those who feel that I and my family SHOULD be shut out... There aren't many who I think see things like this, but I recieved one letter asking me to consider not attending meetings, shows, or forums in which I could make contact with ferrets or even ferret owners. To those who have held fast in your support, I am thankful. I don't feel that I lost my child in vain anymore. I think Neelix is probably very proud at the movement that he stirred. To those who are quietly living with this disease in your home... Please stand up and share YOUR story. Share what YOU are doing to protect your friends and ferrets everywhere. Although I don't hope for a large number of people to live through this, I hope that those who do take the responsibility that has been given to them and use it for the betterment of this community. Lastly... I have learned how long the days are when you are waiting for the results on your babies blood work. 3 weeks and counting... I will soon know if I live in a true ADV household... at least for now. Another test will be issued of course no matter what. Thank you all for your love and support. That's really what I wanted to say in this. I want you to all be proud to know that you inspired me to become proactive. I'm here for you all if you ever need me. Thank you again. Meredith Van Sickle [Posted in FML issue 5260]