It’s heartbreaking when someone who’s spent their entire life caring for others—both humans and animals—feels overwhelmed by pain.
That’s the tragic story of Mikayla Raines, a beloved YouTube creator and animal rescuer, who recently took her own life after facing relentless online bullying.
A Husband’s Heartbreaking Announcement
Mikayla’s husband, Ethan, shared the devastating news on Instagram Monday, confirming that she died by suicide.
He spoke openly about the harsh, targeted harassment Mikayla endured online.
“They spread false rumors, and because she was so sensitive, it affected her deeply,” Ethan explained.
Despite years of trying to overcome the emotional turmoil, this time the pain became too much for her.
Battling More Than Just Bullying
At just 29 years old, Mikayla had been grappling with several health challenges, including depression, borderline personality disorder, and autism.
Over the years, she sought help through therapy and different medications, but Ethan said, sadly, “nothing really seemed to help.”
The Legacy of Save A Fox
Mikayla was best known for founding Save A Fox, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating foxes and other exotic animals.
Starting at age 20 in 2016, she grew Save A Fox into the largest fox rescue in the United States, with centers in Florida and Minnesota.
The organization’s mission was deeply personal to Mikayla, reflecting her lifelong devotion to animal welfare.
The Toll of Online Harassment
Ethan revealed that Mikayla faced a sustained campaign of cruelty online—not only from strangers but shockingly, also from some within the animal rescue community.
“She was met with rude words, accusations, and name-calling from people she once called friends,” he said.
He believes jealousy and envy fueled much of the abuse she endured.
A Lifelong Passion Fueled by Compassion
Mikayla’s love for animals began early, volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitator when she was just 15.
Being on the autism spectrum made life challenging in many ways, but it also gave her an intense focus on what mattered most to her: helping animals.
Ethan shared through tears, “She dedicated every moment of her life to their care—from helping a snapping turtle cross a road to rescuing hundreds of foxes from cruel fur farms.”
Selflessness at Its Finest
Ethan described Mikayla as someone who never sought fame or fortune.
She often sacrificed her own needs—skipping meals, sleep, and even showers—if an animal needed her attention.
Her vision was never limited by what others called unrealistic.
“Mikayla was the most amazing and inspiring person I’ve ever known.
Losing her leaves an empty space in our lives,” he said.
Continuing Mikayla’s Mission
Save A Fox has saved thousands of animals, and Ethan is committed to carrying on Mikayla’s work.
“Every animal here just lost their best friend,” he said.
But he promised, “I will put all my love and energy into this rescue to keep saving lives.
This is what Mikayla would have wanted.”
Remembering Mikayla as a Mother and Friend
Mikayla leaves behind Ethan and their young daughter, Freya.
Ethan praised her as an incredible mother who taught Freya to care for animals with respect and kindness.
She was not only a mother but a best friend to their daughter.
Tributes from the Community
Friends, fellow animal advocates, and fans flooded social media with heartfelt tributes.
Juniper Wildlife Refuge wrote, “So many foxes only came to us because of Mikayla’s compassion.
We all carry a piece of her light through them.”
Miranda Sanders, a wildlife campaigner, called Mikayla “one of the most selfless, passionate, and purehearted souls” she had ever met.
She also condemned those who bullied Mikayla, saying, “Your cruelty took a beautiful life and left wounds that may never heal.”
Fans expressed shock and sorrow.
One wrote, “Devastating doesn’t even begin to describe this.”
Another shared, “She deserves all the goodness in the world. May she rest in peace.”
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or crisis, help is available 24/7.
You can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for confidential support.