Thanks for the info. I'm very proud to say that I already did exactly what you just advised.
The wiring between the switch and light fixture was run through standard 3/4" conduit, and, after several tries, I was able to push a white 12AWG wire up the conduit from the switch to the fixture (a 9' run with at least two bends, no less). Was able to make good clean connections for both neutral and box ground. New surge protector has been plugged in past 24 hours with no issue, so I think its done.
('Course, I tripled my labor by having to take down and reinstall the kitchen 4'-tube fluorescent light fixture, but what'd I expect, anyway??)
Thanks, again, for the great advice.
Dimarc67