Parkland Survivor Takes Life, Suffered Survivor's Remorse: Report

PARKLAND, FL -- A former cheerleader, who survived the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School massacre and wanted to help others with a career in the medical field, has passed away at the age of 19. Her mother, Cara, told a Miami television station that Sydney Aiello took her own life on March 17 after battling survivor's remorse since the Valentine's Day shooting that claimed the lives of 17 students and faculty.

"She lit up every room she entered," penned family friends Brett and Blair Israel on a GoFundMe they established to raise money for Aiello's funeral and other expenses. The page raised $37,000 in two days. See also Parkland Principal Removed From Duties Pending Investigation and Parkland Strong: Moment Of Silence Marks One Year Since Tragedy.

The Israels remembered Sydney Aiello as a young woman who filled her days with cheerleading, yoga and brightening the days of others.

Cara Aiello told CBS 4 in Miami that her daughter had recently been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and was uncomfortable being in classrooms.

Sydney went on to graduate from Marjory Stoneman Douglas and her Facebook page said she started college at Florida Atlantic University in August.

In June, she shared a post on Facebook that listed Robin Williams, Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, all of whom took their own lives. The post carried the message: "So, let me say this really loud so the people in the back of the room can hear me ... sometimes you need to check on those who seem the strongest," the post stated.

In another post, Sydney said she was excited to teach her first yoga class.

Hunter Pollack, whose sister, Meadow, was killed in the Parkland tragedy, said on social media that Sydney was very "dear" to his sister.

"Beautiful Sydney with such a bright future was taken from us way too soon," Pollack said, urging people to make a donation in Aiello's memory. Pollack's tweet was shared by Parkland survivors David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez.

"Sydney spent 19 years writing her story as a beloved daughter, sister and friend to many," the GoFundMe said. "It was a privilege to have you in our lives. Sydney, we will miss you and always love you. May you find peace in His arms."

If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255.