Animal Activist and YouTube Star Dies by Suicide at 29, Husband Releases Heartfelt Video
What factors contributed to Mikayla Raines’ suicide, according to her husband’s emotional video?
The world of animal rescue and online communities is grieving a profound loss.
Mikayla Raines, a 29-year-old YouTuber and founder of SaveAFox Rescue, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication.
Her husband, Ethan Raines, shared the devastating news in an emotional video, revealing that Mikayla died by suicide after facing intense online bullying.
Her story highlights the impact of kindness, the weight of cruelty, and the importance of mental health awareness.
A Life Dedicated to Animals
Mikayla Raines was a beacon of hope for animals in need. At just 15, she began volunteering with a wildlife rehabilitator, sparking a lifelong passion for animal rescue.
In 2016, at the age of 20, she founded SaveAFox Rescue, a nonprofit based in Minnesota dedicated to saving foxes from fur farms and unsafe homes.
Her YouTube channel, with over 2.4 million subscribers, showcased her work with foxes like Finnegan Fox and Dixie Do, inspiring millions.
Mikayla’s autism allowed her to focus deeply on her mission, but it also made her sensitive to criticism, which later took a heavy toll.
Her organization grew into the largest fox rescue in the United States, saving over 500 foxes and other animals like mink and cats.
Mikayla’s videos, filled with playful moments and heartfelt care, showed her unique connection with animals.
Her final Instagram post, shared on June 22, 2025, featured her playing with a lemur, a testament to her love for all creatures.
The Impact of Online Bullying
Ethan Raines revealed that Mikayla faced years of online harassment, including rumors and accusations from strangers, rival sanctuaries, and even people she considered friends.
Her mental health struggles, including autism, depression, and borderline personality disorder, made these attacks especially painful.
Despite therapy and medication, the relentless negativity overwhelmed her. Ethan shared that Mikayla felt “the entire world had turned against her,” leading to her tragic decision.
In his emotional 11-minute video, Ethan described the pain of trying to save her, performing CPR for 15 minutes until paramedics arrived.
He expressed heartbreak for their daughter, Freya, who is struggling to understand her mother’s absence. Ethan’s message was clear: words have consequences, and online cruelty can devastate lives.
Continuing Mikayla’s Legacy
Ethan has vowed to carry on Mikayla’s mission at SaveAFox Rescue, determined to honor her memory by saving more animals.
Fans and animal lovers have flooded social media with tributes, praising Mikayla’s selflessness and calling for kindness online. A public memorial service will be held at the sanctuary to celebrate her life.
Mikayla’s story is a reminder to support those struggling with mental health and to think twice before spreading negativity.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255, or text “STRENGTH” to 741-741.
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