Rest in Peace Tamisha Jeal 

A tragic traffic incident in Santa Elena Town over the weekend claimed the life of 19-year-old Tamisha Jeal. On Sunday morning, Jeal and her brother, Keenan, were on a motorcycle when they collided into a pickup truck. It happened at around 10 o’clock near the Puma Gas Station on the George Price Highway. The siblings were rushed to the Western Regional Hospital, where Tamisha later succumbed.

Tamisha, a recent graduate of Galen University and an Ariel Rosado Scholarship recipient, had earned an Associate degree in Veterinary Technology—Animal Health. She had just celebrated her 19th birthday the day before.

On Facebook, the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic posted, “There are no words that can truly convey the devastation we feel. Our cherished volunteer, former intern, and neighbour, Tamisha Jeal, has been taken from us far too soon. She wasn’t just a part of our team; she was the heart of it. Tamisha’s dream was to become a veterinarian, her love for animals boundless and pure. She gave her all, every single day, caring for creatures with a tenderness and dedication that touched us all. She never once asked for anything in return, never once complained, even when the days were long and the work overwhelming. Tamisha did more than care for animals she cared for us. Her daily motivational quotes on our whiteboard lifted us when we could barely stand, pushing us through the hardest days. Her future was as bright as her spirit, but life’s cruel hand has stolen her from us. It’s a heartbreaking truth everything good, everything pure, seems to leave this world too soon. Next week, as we go about our duties, her absence will echo in every corner. She will be missed in ways words can’t describe. Tamisha, may you now care for the creatures beyond the rainbow bridge, with the same love you gave here. We will never forget you. You were our light, and that light will forever be missed.”

Keenan remains hospitalised, receiving treatment for multiple injuries, including several broken bones.

Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE) posted on Facebook, “Our heart is with TIDE Community Researcher Keenan Wragg after hearing the tragic news of his and his sister’s traffic accident. TIDE sends our deepest condolences to Keenan and his family for the loss of his sister Tamisha Jeal. We pray for Keenan’s swift recovery.”