Rachel Elizabeth Tussey, a beloved Ohio mother of three and a vibrant TikTok personality known for sharing her life and "mommy makeover" journey, passed away on March 17, 2026, at the age of 47. Her death followed severe complications from a cosmetic surgical procedure. Rachel's candid and engaging presence on her TikTok account, "Midlife Unmuted," resonated with thousands, offering an authentic glimpse into her experiences and aspirations.

Born on June 18, 1978, Rachel dedicated her life to her family and community. She was a devoted wife to Jeremy Tussey and a loving mother to their three children, Tristan, Alec (also known as Alec Neace), and Livi (also known as Alivia Tussey). Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she was known for her unwavering support and care for those around her. Rachel also had a history of community involvement, including raising money for hurricane victims.

Rachel gained a significant following on TikTok, where she openly documented her preparations for a highly anticipated abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck. Her videos, filled with excitement and a touch of nervousness, chronicled her journey leading up to the surgery, which she had reportedly waited a long time to undergo. She shared her hopes for a "midlife glow-up" with her more than 78,000 followers, becoming a trusted voice for women often overlooked in mainstream media, focusing on real-life experiences such as marriage, parenting, self-image, and personal growth.

The surgery took place on February 25, 2026, at JourneyLite Surgery Center in Evendale, Ohio, a private surgical center in the Cincinnati area. While the procedure itself was initially reported as successful, Rachel experienced a catastrophic turn of events in the recovery room. Her husband, Jeremy, alleges "medical neglect" and believes an excessive dose of pain medication, specifically fentanyl and Dilaudid, administered in the recovery room led to her becoming unresponsive and suffering an extended loss of oxygen.

Dr. Shahryar Tork, the surgeon, stated that the surgery itself was "completed successfully and without complications" and that Rachel was "awake, speaking with him, and recovering as expected" when he last saw her. He noted that post-operative monitoring was overseen by staff contracted by the independent facility, not his practice, and he has since discontinued all procedures at that surgery center. Following the tragic incident, Rachel was rushed to TriHealth Bethesda North Hospital, where doctors determined she had been without oxygen for more than six minutes, leading to a permanent anoxic brain injury. She was subsequently declared brain dead.

On March 5, 2026, her husband, Jeremy, made the agonizing decision to remove her from life support. Rachel spent her final days receiving end-of-life care in hospice, surrounded by her grieving family. Her husband shared the heartbreaking news of her passing on March 17, 2026, through an update on a GoFundMe page established to support the family during this incredibly difficult time, describing Rachel as an "amazing wife, mother, and person who touched so many lives." The outpouring of love and support from her community and online followers underscored the profound impact Rachel had on many lives.

Rachel Tussey's family has retained attorney Bernard Layne to conduct a "full and thorough investigation" into the facts and circumstances surrounding her death. The Warren County coroner has stated that no autopsy has been performed yet, and the official cause of death remains undetermined. JourneyLite Surgery Center reported that staff followed life-saving protocols and that the cause of death remains undetermined; they also requested an autopsy. State health and pharmacy surveys found JourneyLite in compliance. Her death has sparked widespread discussion among medical professionals and the public about patient care and safety in outpatient cosmetic surgical settings, particularly concerning "mommy makeovers," and the critical need for enhanced post-operative monitoring and recovery protocols.

Rachel Elizabeth Tussey will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her devotion as a mother and wife, and her courage in sharing her personal journey with the world. Her story has brought to light important conversations surrounding patient care and safety in outpatient surgical settings. Her story has also renewed discussions about how social media platforms can shape public attention around personal crises, viral content, and online behavior. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and an enduring presence in the hearts of her family and the many individuals she touched through her online community.