'Sad to see this': Tributes pour in after US Army soldier and fitness influencer Michelle Young dies by suicide

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

PHOENIX, ARIZONA: Michelle Young, a US Army servicewoman and popular fashion and fitness influencer, died by suicide at the age of 34. She is survived by her 12-year-old daughter, Gracie. 

On Saturday, January 20, Staff Sergeant Young's close friend, Sarah Maine, shared the tragic news in a heartfelt post on GoFundMe, describing her as "a beautiful soul, an amazing friend, a single mother, a soldier" who had secretly been battling inner demons, as per the New York Post.

Michelle Young dedicated 16 years of her life to military service after enlisting at 18

Young, who enlisted in the US Army at 18, dedicated 16 years to military service and completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan. Her friends noted she loved being a soldier as much as being a devoted single mother to Gracie. 

Just days before her death, Young had posted a loving birthday message to her daughter on Instagram, calling her the "sweetest girl I've ever known" and the "best part" of being her mother. Photos of the smiling pair were frequently updated on her social media accounts, showcasing their happy memories.

The influencer had been open about past family trauma, including her older brother's suicide when she was just 14 years old. In September 2023, she shared her personal story online in honor of Suicide Prevention Week, encouraging others who may be struggling to reach out for support. 

GoFundMe arranged to help Michelle Young's daughter manages to raise $33,600

In the description of the GoFundeMe campaign organized to support Young's daughter, Maine further wrote, "We will never fill the gaps in our hearts and will always be left with questions."

She emphasized that the US Army servicewoman had seemed happy from the outside, recalling her vibrant social media presence focused on fitness, fashion, and advocacy. But her dying by suicide is proof that "you never know what someone is going through."

Maine went on to highlight the prevalence of mental illness, especially among military members like Young, urging, "We need to find a way to do better."

The GoFundMe has already raised $33,600 of $50,000 at the time of writing.

Prayers flow in for Michelle Young and her family

In the aftermath of the devastating news surrounding Young's death, the online community shared heartfelt messages for the influencer and her family.

One wrote, "Poor woman, rest in peace," and another added, "So young too RIP."

A person conveyed, "Sad to see this," while someone else expressed, "A tragedy in so many different ways."

"Very sad. She was so young. Good thoughts to her family," noted a follower. 

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