Fallbrook, California. Dr. Joleen Elston discovered her love of equine medicine while in veterinary school in 2006, and after graduation a year later, she founded a practice in San Diego.
But this beloved community vet recently experienced a shocking career setback; her veterinary truck was stolen from her garage.
Not only did the thief make off with the vehicle, but it held thousands of dollars worth of vet equipment and medicines.
The police and community began a search for the truck, and after several sightings, it was found abandoned in the area.
Unfortunately, it was missing all of her expensive equipment and most medications.
In the face of this setback, Dr. Elston won’t be able to restart her mobile practice until she’s replaced her supplies, which could take months, thanks to Covid-related shipment delays.
In addition, she was seven months pregnant and entirely reliant on her work for income, so the next few months would be challenging, especially while adjusting to life with a newborn.
However, a few of Joleen’s friends banded together to post a GoFundMe on her behalf, hoping to get her back into business as soon as possible using the supportive funds.
GoFundMe; pictured above is Dr. Joleen Elston
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These friends described her consistent care and dedication to the San Diego community, where she serves more than 1400 clients.
They wrote in their post, “Joleen works tirelessly to give her clients the most personal and comprehensive care, and is passionate about educating each client on their respective horse’s overall wellbeing long term.”
The GoFundMe listed the range of equipment that would need to be replaced to get this dedicated horse-lover back out into her community: “a Poskum X-ray Machine, Vetel X-ray Plate & Laptop, Sonosite Edge Ultrasound, and Makita Equine Dental Unit.”
Most of all, the friends emphasized that Joleen has had a profoundly positive impact on the lives of both humans and their horses across San Diego, and she deserves their gratitude and support.
So far, the post has raised over $44,000 and is well on its way toward the $150,000 goal. To donate or learn more, you can head to Dr. Elston’s GoFundMe.
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