Fans around the world are heartbroken after learning that Mikayla Raines, the YouTube star who created the popular “Save A Fox” rescue channel, has died at just 29 years old. Her husband shared the tragic news in a deeply emotional video, saying she died by suicide after struggling with mental health issues and hurtful online bullying.
Mikayla wasn’t just a social media personality—she was someone who made a real difference. Through her rescue, she gave hundreds of foxes a second chance at life, and her videos touched millions of people.
She Turned Her Love for Animals Into a Life Mission
Back in 2017, Mikayla started Save A Fox, a nonprofit rescue based in Minnesota. She had a big heart for animals, especially foxes that were no longer wanted by fur farms or pet owners. Over the years, she helped save more than 150 of them.
But Mikayla didn’t just save animals—she also educated people. Her videos, full of personality and love, helped people learn how special foxes really are. She never asked for fame or money. She just loved what she did.
Her Mental Health Struggles Were Real—and So Was the Pain from Online Hate
While Mikayla made millions smile with her videos, she was quietly fighting some serious personal battles. Her husband, Ethan, shared that she struggled with autism, depression, and borderline personality disorder. She talked openly about being autistic and wanted to help others feel understood.
But the internet wasn’t always kind. According to Ethan, some of the bullying and cruel messages came from people she knew personally in the rescue world. That kind of betrayal hit her hard. He said she felt like she had lost people she trusted—and the pain became too much for her to handle.
Her Husband’s Heartbreaking Message
Ethan shared what happened in a video that has since gone viral. Through tears, he explained that he tried to revive her with CPR for 15 minutes before help arrived. He said Mikayla loved deeply—her daughter, her foxes, her community. And now, her little girl has to grow up without a mother.
He didn’t hold back his anger either. He called out those who had bullied her, saying, “If you only have mean things to say, just shut up.” His message was raw, real, and full of love for his wife.
He also promised that Save A Fox will go on. He plans to honor Mikayla’s legacy and keep her rescue work alive, as long as the community keeps supporting them.
A Rescue That Grew Against All Odds
Mikayla didn’t have an easy path building her rescue. She started in a small town with just a few permits. When the rescue grew, she faced challenges with permits, zoning rules, and even some local pushback. But she never gave up. With the help of her supporters, she raised more than $60,000 to build a new facility.
Through it all, her main goal was to give foxes a better life—and she succeeded.
A Wake-Up Call About Online Hate and Mental Health
Mikayla’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of how serious mental health struggles can be—and how cruel online bullying can have devastating consequences.
She was brave enough to talk about her challenges. But even brave people can break under pressure. Her husband is asking everyone to be more thoughtful online and to reach out to friends who may be struggling.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or know someone who is, please don’t stay silent. Talk to someone. Call the suicide and crisis lifeline at 988. You are not alone.
What’s Next for Save A Fox?
Ethan says the rescue will continue, and that they’re planning a memorial event to celebrate Mikayla’s life. The work she started will carry on—because of her, hundreds of animals have been saved, and thousands of people have been inspired.
Even though Mikayla is gone, her kindness, courage, and mission live on.
