Many families that are touched by suicide never expect to be. The Shulze family now sadly joins their ranks.
Sarah Shulze, a 21-year-old track star who ran for the University of Wisconsin-Madison, died on April 13, 2022. It came as a shock to those who knew and loved the Oak Park, California, native and believed she had an incredible future ahead of her.
Today, Sarah's family is speaking out about her life and legacy. They're candid about the struggles she faced in hopes that it will resonate with others to seek help through their own dark times.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
Sarah's family has created a website to share her story and their plans to honor her legacy with a foundation. In their first post on April 15, they were candid in sharing news of Sarah's death.
"We suddenly and tragically lost our dear Sarah on Wednesday, April 13. She was surrounded by her loving family," they shared.
"Sarah took her own life. Balancing athletics, academics and the demands of every day life overwhelmed her in a single, desperate moment. Like you, we are shocked and grief stricken while holding on tightly to all that Sarah was."
"Above all other things, Sarah was a power for good in the world. Her deep compassion was evident in her devotion to her sisters Abbey and Ella, the love her parents felt from her every single day, and the extra care she took in moments shared with her grandparents and cousins," the statement continues.
"Her service to her community started at a young age through the National Charity League. Sarah was a member of the Oak Park High School Class of 2019 and served her high school's student body as a member of the ASB for four years."
"Sarah was a deeply committed friend that could be counted on to take on any and every adventure on a moment’s notice. Some of Sarah’s favorite adventures were trips to Europe, Africa, Alaska and other parts of the U.S., all shared with family and friends," her family continued.
"Anyone who knew Sarah knew that her lifelong passions extended beyond family and friends to the track. She began to make her mark as an athlete on her high school track and cross-country teams, competing throughout the country in National and State events. Her devotion and incredible talent for running would culminate in a scholarship opportunity to race for the University of Wisconsin at Madison, an ongoing source of pride for Sarah as she entered her third season with the team."
The statement also noted some recent shifts in Sarah's life and vision for her future.
"She was also a member of the Student Athlete Council at UW Madison. During her time in Wisconsin, Sarah loved her internship at the Wisconsin state legislature and volunteered as a poll worker during our last Presidential election. These experiences helped develop her deep love for politics, social causes and women's rights," they shared.
"Sarah regarded herself as a champion for all women, as did the many family members, friends, students and athletes who surrounded her."
The Shulze family has worked hard as they've mourned Sarah to make something meaningful of their heartbreak. They've created the Sarah Shulze Foundation, which will seek to advance and support women's rights, student athletes, and mental health.
"It is our wish that in lieu of flowers, family and friends offer support to the Foundation, in various ways, in the weeks and months ahead," they shared on the website.
The University of Wisconsin has also released a statement on Sarah's death.
"Sarah was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, friend, teammate and Badger student-athlete," the school said.
"We extend our deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to Sarah's family, friends and Badger teammates during this extraordinarily difficult time."
