ELBURN – Those who knew Michael D. Fairbanks say they are heartbroken that the 19-year-old died Tuesday at an Elburn home.

“We are all very cheated by this loss,” said Nancy Mullen, executive director of Youth Outlook, an organization committed to providing a safe, supportive and respectful environment for adolescents, whether they identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or questioning.

Fairbanks was Youth Leader of the Year in 2009 for his work with the Youth Outlook organization. Mullen said Fairbanks was generous with his time and, along with Mullen, spoke to groups about student rights issues.