Minnesota, USA – Mikayla Raines, a beloved YouTube star and founder of the animal rescue organization Save A Fox, has tragically passed away by suicide at the age of 29.
Her husband, Ethan, confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media, sharing that Mikayla’s death followed a long period of online harassment and bullying, which took a significant toll on her mental health.
Mikayla’s Legacy as an Animal Rights Activist
Mikayla was a passionate animal rights activist who dedicated her life to rescuing and rehabilitating foxes and other exotic animals.
She built Save A Fox, a nonprofit organization with locations in Florida and Minnesota, into one of the largest fox rescue operations in the U.S. The organization’s YouTube channel has amassed over 2.4 million subscribers, and her Instagram account had over 500,000 followers.
Mikayla’s journey with animals began when she was just 15 years old, volunteering with a wildlife rehabilitator. This experience inspired her to start Save A Fox in 2016 at the age of 20, a decision that would forever change her life and the lives of countless animals she saved.
A Legacy of Compassion and Dedication
In a deeply emotional 11-minute video, Ethan shared that Mikayla had been the victim of relentless online bullying. He revealed that the harassment didn’t just come from strangers, but also from people she considered close friends, even within the animal rescue community.
Ethan explained that Mikayla, a sensitive soul, was deeply affected by the false rumors and hurtful words spread about her.
“She tried for years to push through the pain, but this time it was too much,” Ethan said in the video. He also mentioned that Mikayla had faced mental health struggles for many years, including depression, autism, and borderline personality disorder. Despite these challenges, Mikayla remained dedicated to her mission of helping animals, often to the exclusion of her own personal needs.
“Mikayla was truly one of the most selfless people I have ever known,” Ethan continued. “She was never in it for fame, money, or personal gain. She dedicated every waking hour of her life to helping animals.”
Mikayla’s Passing: A Tragic Loss to the Animal Rescue Community
Mikayla’s passing has left a deep void in both her family and the animal rescue community. She is survived by her husband, Ethan, their daughter, Freya, and the countless animals she cared for at Save A Fox.
Fans and fellow animal advocates have paid tribute to Mikayla’s legacy. The Juniper Wildlife Refuge, a nonprofit animal organization, shared their sorrow, stating:
“This is so tragic. So many in our community have foxes that only came to us because of Mikayla’s dedication to her mission and empathy toward animals.”
They added:
“We will all carry a small piece of her light that lives on through them. There are really no words to describe how sorry I am for your loss and the pain that you and all of her loved ones are suffering. I hope her memory continues to bring all of you strength.”
Mikayla’s Impact Lives On
Mikayla Raines may no longer be with us, but her legacy in the animal rescue world lives on. Through Save A Fox, she saved and rehabilitated hundreds of foxes and other animals, creating an enduring impact on the lives of those she helped.
Her family and friends, along with the many people she touched through her work, have vowed to continue her mission and keep her memory alive.