A popular meteorologist in Michigan died on Wednesday after taking her own life. A Michigan native, Jessica Starr received two meteorology degrees from Michigan State University and Mississippi State University.
A 35-year-old wife and mother of two children, Jessica’s death comes after she underwent a new type of LASIK eye surgery. Reportedly, the surgery caused Jessica to have a lot of pain and trouble seeing. She posted this on Twitter in November.
Update; yesterday was a struggle for me. I really wanted to come back but I need more time to recover. Please keep me in your thoughts during this challenging time. Will keep you updated. ??
— Jessica Starr (@Jstarrfox2) November 14, 2018
She posted this troubling video on Facebook at the same time, discussing her struggle with the aftermath of the surgery.
From her colleagues at Fox 2:
“Last night we were informed of the heartbreaking news that our friend and colleague, meteorologist Jessica Starr took her life. All of us here at FOX 2 are in deep shock and cannot believe that such a wonderful, bright and intelligent individual will no longer be with us. Her family and friends will be in our thoughts and prayers in the coming days as we all deal with our grief.”
Jessica’s mother, Carol Starr, shed new light on her daughter’s suicide. She told RadarOnline that the aftermath of the surgery was affecting every area of Jessica’s life.
“She went to, like, four specialists,” Carol said. “From what we’re hearing now, it can have other implications, including on the optic nerve. It can cause some brain trauma.”
She added:
“It was affecting her sleep. She lost weight. You never expect it to get this bad.”
Carol Starr is baffled.
“She made it through so many bad things in her life… She was a strong woman. I raised a strong woman.”
Jessica was a “hometown hero,” according to her high school basketball coach, Robert Schopf. He says he’ll continue telling her story as a lesson for kids who need to know they can achieve their dreams.
“Jessica made it, she was living her dream,” Schopf said. “On TV, a well-known figure in the community, a kid who really did well. And we were all very proud of her.”
Jessica died of death by hanging.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also text 741-741 for free, confidential emotional support 24 hours a day.