A beloved YouTube personality and animal rights advocate took her own life after facing relentless online harassment, as shared by her devastated husband.
Mikayla Raines, who was well-known as the founder of Save a Fox Rescue Center, endured a “campaign of online bullying” from acquaintances and individuals associated with other animal sanctuaries, according to her husband, Ethan Frankamp, in an emotional YouTube video. She was just 29 years old and had a young daughter.
Frankamp expressed his anger and sorrow, saying, “I hope each of you who pushed her to this felt every bit of her pain while I was desperately trying to save her.” He added, “I wish you could have seen the paramedics trying to revive her.”
He mentioned how recent criticisms from close friends took a toll on Raines’ mental health. “She felt like the world was against her,” he explained. She had consistently struggled with borderline personality disorder, alongside other challenges like autism and depression. Recently, her condition had worsened.
In his heartfelt appeal, he urged critics to stop spreading false rumors and encouraged anyone feeling hopeless to reach out for support.
Frankamp shared his own ordeal, mentioning he performed CPR on her for 15 minutes in the rain before help arrived. He described the loss as profound, stating, “There’s a huge void in my life, but I won’t let negativity overshadow her light.”
The announcement of her passing followed an uplifting video Frankamp posted, showcasing a rescued lemur. Raines had built a significant following on her YouTube channel, which boasts 2.45 million subscribers.
Frankamp emphasized that Raines was never motivated by fame or money. “She was genuinely selfless, always prioritizing the well-being of animals above all.” He vowed to continue her mission with the rescue center.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or experiencing a mental health crisis in New York City, you can reach out to 888-NYC-Well for confidential support. For those outside the city, call 988 for the suicide and crisis hotline; more resources can be found at siadypreventionlifeline.org.
