Bullied To Death
Mikayla Raines, a dedicated 29-year-old mother, wife, and passionate fox rescuer, has tragically passed away by suicide.
Mikayla struggled with autism, depression, and borderline personality disorder. But. she was also relentlessly abused online. This abuse undoubtedly contributed to her untimely death.
It's important to recognize that bullying, in any form, can have devastating effects, pushing vulnerable individuals to their breaking point.
Mikayla's story is a heartbreaking reminder of the impact words can have and the urgent need for compassion and understanding within our community.
Animal rescuers are sensitive people who dedicate their lives to protecting the most vulnerable beings in our society.
Our work is driven by compassion and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Every day, we confront the harsh realities of animal abuse, witnessing acts of cruelty that can be detrimental to our mental well-being. Despite these challenges, we persevere, knowing that our efforts are crucial.
Securing funding is a constant struggle, as we work tirelessly to sustain our mission.
We often find ourselves in difficult discussions with influential individuals who may not share our values, yet we remain persistent in trying to change their minds for the sake of the animals we protect.
We see the worst in society & we suffer.
Charity bashing is a growing trend, and for some, it might even be considered a hobby.
On social media, there are groups and communities dedicated entirely to scrutinizing and criticizing charitable organizations, with their sole purpose being to relentlessly pursue and hound these rescue efforts.
Platforms like Facebook host numerous such groups, and Mikalya’s was reportedly a snark group on Reddit.
It's hard to imagine anything quite so unpleasant—people banding together to target those who are often doing their best to make a positive difference in the world.
Criticism, even when unfounded or coming from those who lack understanding, can accumulate and feel overwhelming.
Each remark leaves its mark, and the pain it inflicts is real.
When faced with a barrage of organised negativity, it can drive a person to their breaking point.
I've experienced this first hand, and I understand the toll it can take.
The challenge lies in finding the strength to rise above it and continue moving forward despite the hurt. But, why should we have to?
Dealing with online abuse has become a pressing concern for our community.
It's crucial that we take decisive steps to address this issue by working towards shutting down hate groups and considering legal action against those who defame us.
Before my own thoroughly unpleasant experience, I hadn't even thought about the necessity of taking action against organized or unorganized hateful groups.
Now, I am insured, as are the other directors, and Dog Desk Animal Action is insured in its own right. Fortunately, I haven't yet needed to take action, but I am fully prepared to do so if necessary in the future.
Ethan Raines stands as a voice of pain and frustration, encapsulating the immense suffering his wife endured—suffering that never should have occurred.
As the community mourns the loss of a cherished member, my heart is filled with anger, seething with the need for justice.
I yearn for change, for accountability, for those who foster hatred to face the consequences of their actions.
Without such measures, these perpetrators will continue their cycle of harm, targeting others without remorse. Trust me, I’ve witnessed this vicious cycle repeat itself, and it must be stopped.
Now that her torment is over, may she rest in peace.
Our thoughts and hearts are with Mikalya's family, who now begin to navigate their way through their grief and try to find a way to live without her.
We are so sorry, Mikayla; you deserved so much more.