Remington Young was a 20-year-old cheerleader at the University of Kansas who died by suicide on October 30, 2023. She was a bright and talented young woman who had a passion for cheerleading and a love for life. But behind her smile and positivity, she was struggling with a dark battle that eventually took her life. This article will explore Remington Young’s cause of death, her life story, and the legacy she left behind.
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A Cheerleader from an Early Age
Remington Young, also known as Remi, was born on August 3, 2001, in Kansas to parents Randy and Amy Young. Both of her parents were active in athletic sports like baseball and softball during their college days. Remi inherited their sports genes and started tumbling at the age of two. She joined Cheer Eclipse All-Star Cheer and Tumbling Academy when she was five and became a power tumbler who mastered her back handspring before kindergarten.
Remi competed with Cheer Eclipse for nearly a decade and won many awards and honors. She was also a cheerleader at Maize High School, where she graduated in 2020. She was described by her friends as “the brightest, happiest person in every room” and “the most talented person” they knew.
A Dream Come True at KU
Remi’s dream was to be a cheerleader at the University of Kansas (KU), and she achieved it in her freshman year. She was the first freshman ever to make the national squad, which was a remarkable feat. She also excelled in her academics, majoring in biology with an interest in medical fields.
By her sophomore year, Remi was named captain of the KU cheerleading squad, a title voted on by her fellow teammates. She was a role model and a leader for her squad, always motivating them and cheering them on. She was also a loyal fan of the KU sports teams, especially the football team.
A Dark Battle Behind the Smile
Despite her success and popularity, Remi was suffering from mental health issues that were not visible to others. According to her mom, Amy, Remi had been diagnosed with depression and anxiety when she was 16. She had also been prescribed medication for ADHD and insomnia.
Remi tried to cope with her problems by staying busy and positive, but she also felt pressure to maintain her image and performance. She did not want to disappoint anyone or let anyone down. She also did not want to burden anyone with her troubles or ask for help.
On October 30, 2023, Remi took her own life at her apartment in Lawrence, Kansas. Her mom said that she had no signs of suicidal thoughts or intentions before that day. She said that Remi had texted her that morning and told her that she loved her. She also said that Remi had plans for the future and was looking forward to graduating from KU.
A Legacy of Hope and Love
Remi’s death shocked and saddened everyone who knew her. Her family, friends, teammates, coaches, teachers, and fans expressed their grief and condolences on social media and in person. They also shared their memories and tributes of Remi, highlighting her kindness, generosity, humor, spirit, and beauty.
Remi’s family started a foundation in her name called Remington Hope Foundation (RHF). The foundation aims to raise awareness and provide support for mental health issues among young people, especially cheerleaders and athletes. The foundation also hopes to honor Remi’s legacy by spreading hope and love to others.
Remi’s mom said that she wants people to remember Remi as a happy person who loved life and cheered for everyone. She also said that she wants people to know that mental health is real and that it can affect anyone. She urged people to seek help if they are struggling and to reach out to others who may need help.
Remi’s death is a tragic reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and prevention. It also shows that even the most successful and cheerful people can have hidden struggles that need attention and care. Remi’s life story is an inspiration for many people who aspire to achieve their dreams and make a difference in the world. Remi’s cause of death is not the end of her story, but rather the beginning of a new chapter that will continue through her foundation and through the people who loved her.
