In a sorrowful turn of events, friends announced on Saturday the tragic passing of Staff Sgt. Michelle Young, a dedicated US Army member and a well-known fitness and fashion influencer on Instagram. At 34, Young took her own life, leaving behind her 12-year-old daughter, Gracie, who friends described as the center of her world.
In a heartfelt message on GoFundMe, close friend Sarah Maine paid tribute to Young, calling her a “beautiful soul, an amazing friend, a single mother, a soldier.” Maine’s words highlighted the hidden struggles many face, reflecting on the challenges Young quietly endured.
Young served in the Army for 16 years, enlisting at 18 and completing two tours in Afghanistan, according to the Daily Mail. Her dedication to her country showcased the sacrifices many in the military make.
Just days before her death, Young shared a touching birthday post for her daughter Gracie on Instagram, expressing her joy in being Gracie’s mother. This message showed the deep bond between the two, which was evident in their many shared photos. Their Halloween costumes as Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift brought smiles to their followers, illustrating their close relationship.
Outside her military service, Young was a prominent Instagram figure, with over 100,000 followers. She modeled athletic wear for a female veteran-focused company and used her platform to advocate for better mental health care for veterans. Young also worked to combat homelessness among former soldiers and volunteered as a crisis trauma response worker at a local shelter.
In September, during Suicide Prevention Week, Young shared a personal story about losing her older brother to suicide when she was 14. She encouraged those struggling to seek help, a message that now resonates even more deeply following her own death.
The exact reasons behind Young’s suicide remain unclear, raising questions about the challenges she faced. Her passing has sparked widespread tributes, with many recognizing the contrast between her public success and private struggles.
A GoFundMe campaign for Gracie has raised nearly $25,000, showing the community’s support for her daughter. Young’s story highlights the critical need for improved mental health support, particularly for those who serve.
