Vets ride for Vetlife in memory of their friend and colleague

13 March 2019

Vets Anna Jennings and Gemma Ives are riding the length of the country to honour the memory of their friend and colleague Rita Mesquita, who tragically took her own life last year.

Anna Jennings, director of Seadown Veterinary Services and Gemma Ives, a veterinary technical advisor at Protexin Veterinary, formed a close friendship with Dr Mesquita whilst working together. The two are hoping to raise £5,000 for Vetlife, a charity providing free and confidential support to everyone in the veterinary community.

They described Dr Mesquita as a “particularly gifted, respected and much loved, young veterinary surgeon, full of energy and passion”.

Rita was a BSAVA member and was studying towards her Ophthalmology PGCert. Anna Jennings, also a member of the BSAVA has outlined how helpful Vetlife has been for her in times of need;

“I telephoned Vetlife several times when I was struggling; each time they provided a supportive and listening ear, and our conversations left me feeling calmer and more settled in myself.”

Those wishing to donate to the cause entitled #RideforRita can do so by visiting their Virgin Giving Page.