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The loss of one of its biggest stars has left the wildlife and online community in mourning. According to her husband, Ethan Raines, Mikayla Raines, the founder of SaveAFox rescue and animal sanctuary, committed suicide. Her age was 29.
In a heartfelt video that was uploaded to the rescue's social media accounts, Ethan broke the news and described how his wife battled online abuse.
In a video posted to the rescue's social media accounts on June 23, Ethan, who has a daughter named Freya with Mikayla, sobbed as he said, "This time it went too far; she couldn't bear what she was feeling any longer, and she ended her life." "And it pains me that someone who is so selfless and dedicated to animals could be the target of so much hate."
Ethan, who claimed to have tried CPR on his wife for fifteen minutes prior to paramedics arriving, went on to say, "To those of you that pushed her to this," adding, "I wish you had to feel what she felt." I wish I could make you feel the same way.
Reflecting on the joy she brought to the world, Ethan added, “In a world that’s filled with darkness, she was just light.”
Beyond her dedication to animals, Ethan emphasized how, despite her personal battle, Mikayla managed to find time to inform the online Mikaylaty about her mental health issues.
He revealed, "You could never tell what was going on in her head when you looked at her from the outside." However, socializing alone would push her over the edge. She loved assisting others and sharing information about the issues she and others faced on a daily basis, as you could see if you followed her personal page.
He went on to say, "She was extremely sensitive to everything." This is a double-edged sword because, while it gave her unending compassion for the people under her care, it also means that she took everything personally.
Nevertheless, she is the subject of "ridiculous claims and rumors" on the internet. Mikayla kept on her mission of saving and rescuing as many animals as she could.
"She persevered for years," Ethan remarked. She persevered despite the psychological difficulties she encountered and the hurt caused by those who sought to undermine her. Still, she transformed the lives of countless people and saved hundreds of animals.
In remembrance of his late wife, Ethan, Mikayla's son, has announced a public service at the sanctuary and promised to continue her legacy and mission at the Minnesota-based establishment. He thinks SaveAFox can keep saving lives and illuminating the world if it receives more support.
