Lauren Barakey

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A 23-year-old recent Virginia Tech graduate and former college swimmer is facing a long and difficult recovery after falling seriously ill — and the community that knows her best is rallying behind her.

Lauren Barakey, a Virginia Beach native and 2024 Virginia Tech alum, is known to friends and teammates for her strength, determination, and kindness. 

Her family confirmed that she is “seriously ill” and facing a “long and challenging road to recovery,” according to posts shared by loved ones and a GoFundMe campaign launched this week.

The former Hokies swimmer, who graduated in May with a degree in human development, was remembered by Virginia Tech Swimming and Diving as “one of the most authentic and energetic teammates” whose presence will be “missed dearly," after her graduation.

Barakey’s teammates and friends from Blacksburg to Virginia Beach have shared an outpouring of love and support, describing her as “the sweetest and brightest of lights one could meet.”

“Lauren Barakey needs our support,” one friend wrote. “She is a 23-year-old recent Virginia Tech graduate and a standout collegiate swimmer, known by everyone around her for her strength, determination, and kindness. Recently, Lauren has fallen seriously ill and faces a long and challenging road to recovery.”

The GoFundMe campaign — created by family friend Jason Fawcett — was established to help Barakey and her parents, Mike and Wendy Barakey, “as they navigate the emotional and financial challenges ahead.”

“The funds will help with medical expenses, travel, and the many costs that come with a long recovery process,” organizers wrote. 

“Lauren has always been a fighter in and out of the pool whose family has always supported so many others, and now it’s our turn to rally behind her and her incredible family.”

The show of support has spread far beyond her immediate circle — extending to Virginia Tech’s athletics community and beyond.

Former teammate Emma Inch shared, “She’s the sweetest and brightest of lights one could meet. Anything helps her and the amazing Barakey family. It takes a village.”

Brittany Sharpe, in a post also shared by VT Wrestling, added, “Many of you know Lauren Barakey — Andy’s longtime girlfriend, who has always been such an incredible source of love, support, and strength for him." 

"She’s an amazing young woman with a heart of gold, and now she needs our support more than ever.”

Sharpe continued: “Through it all, Andy has been right by her side, doing everything he can to care for her while they both navigate their recent move to North Carolina."

"The love and devotion they’ve shown during this difficult time is truly inspiring.”

Another friend, Haley Hollins, wrote, “I haven’t known Lauren for long but we did live together for about a month this summer."

"Lauren is one of a kind, always does for others and all around just a great person. Even if you can’t donate, please spread this post to help.”

As of Tuesday afternoon, more than $27,000 had been raised toward a $40,000 goal to assist the Barakey family.

The fundraiser can be found here.

“Please consider donating,” retired firefighter Chuck Chapin wrote. “This is the daughter of my Fire Chief when I retired. Can’t imagine what they are going through.”