Flight attendant Kayleigh Scott has unexpectedly died.
Kayleigh gained international attention after she shared her transition journey through her job at United Airlines in 2020. In a video recording shared at the time, Kayleigh praised the company and her coworkers for supporting her while transitioning.
She said, in part, "This is a story that I know is so important for me to continue sharing. Not for me, but for those out there who are still fighting social norms, the boundaries set upon them, [and] fighting themselves."
She also spoke about the moment she realized she was transgender in an interview on the Something's Coming Up blog. Kayleigh said, "Growing up, living as a boy early on in my life, I started to figure out things were different … these clothes don't feel right, these toys don't feel right. I was about 9 when I started to realize that … I don't think I'm a boy."
In 2021, Kayleigh sounded upbeat about her journey. She wrote on Facebook, "Two years ago I came out and made my transition public. It's remarkable to reflect on the past two years and see how much I've grown emotionally, physically and spiritually! Despite the challenges I have faced along the way, I have managed to stand taller and continue fighting for myself and everyone out there who does not have the privilege to use their own voice. Here's to being unapologetically me. #BeCounted."
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Kayleigh's death came as a surprise. She told her family, friends, and followers on Facebook, "As I take my final breaths and exit this living earth, I would like to apologize to everyone I let down. I am so sorry I could not be better. To those that I love, I am sorry I could not be stronger. To those that gave me their everything, I am sorry my effort was not reciprocated."
Kayleigh's original video with United is below.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.