I would like to publicly thank the many, many people who have responded so generously after a fire on Jan. 8 ruined my home and took the lives of five of my seven foster cats.

I cannot adequately express how deeply appreciative I am to:

* The firefighters at the South Portland Fire Department, whose compassion and efforts I will never forget- particularly their handling of the surviving animals.

* Friends, neighbors and even total strangers, who have so generously donated clothing, furniture, gift cards, money toward veterinary care and other necessities.

* The staff and volunteers at the Animal Refuge League, for their unlimited and unflappable dedication and loyalty to me and my animals.

* The veterinarians and staff at Pine Point Animal Hospital, for their immediate appearance on the scene to help any surviving animals and their total support and care over the next few days as Elsa the dog, and cats Kitty Doyle and Baby were monitored in their office.

* Cape Elizabeth Veterinary Clinic on Cottage Road, for their emergency attention to Elsa as she emerged from the fire, and to the Emergency Veterinary Clinic on Warren Avenue in Portland for their support for both me and the animals as we made our way through that first frightful night.

The outpouring of support has been truly humbling. Elsa, Baby and Kitty Doyle have mostly recovered from the ordeal, and all of us are living comfortably in a temporary home until ours is rehabbed.

Thank you, all, for your kindness and generosity.

Ellin Doyle

South Portland