our why
The purpose of the Jeffrey Bear Foundation is to honor the memory of Jeff Godbey, DVM, an emergency veterinarian who took his life in 2019. Until this tragedy, we didn't know that veterinarians are 2 to 4 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Now that we know more, we are compelled to do more.
our
how
We honor Jeff by promoting awareness of mental health and wellbeing among veterinarians, and by supporting educational endeavors for veterinary medicine students and professionals. These efforts are made possible by generous donations from the community, appreciated whether large or small. Help grow the awareness, the compassion, and the resources that can save lives.
Meet Jeffrey Bear
Jeff was a talented musician, a doting father, a committed veterinarian, a beloved son, the life of the party. He put his whole self into everything he did. He needed something back, but you'd never know it. We keep his light shining through this work, helping others and transforming tragedy into love.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988
