Moms and Dads
Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst’s Mom April Simpkins Says She’s ‘Forever Changed’ After Daughter’s Death
April Simpkins reveals her daughter, Cheslie Kryst, battled high-functioning depression which unfortunately led to her death.
Four days after Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst’s death, her mom April Simpkins posted a message on Instagram as she grieves on the sudden passing of her daughter.
“I have never known pain as deep as this. I am forever changed,” April shared Thursday, February 3. “Today, what our family and friends privately knew was the cause of death of my sweet baby girl, Cheslie, was officially confirmed. While it may be hard to believe, it’s true. Cheslie led both a public and a private life.”
” In her private life, she was dealing with high-functioning depression which she hid from everyone – including me, her closest confidant – until very shortly before her death.”
April said that despite the short time Cheslie had on earth, they will always have good memories of the 30-year-old lawyer and Extra TV correspondent.
Remembering Cheslie Kryst with Wisdom, Humor, and Love
“We miss her laugh, her words of wisdom, her sense of humor and mostly her hugs. We miss all of it – we miss all of her. She was a vital part of our family which makes this loss even more devastating.”
“Cheslie – to the world, you were a ball of sunshine wrapped in smiles. We talked, FaceTimed or texted one another all day, every day. You were more than a daughter – you were my very best friend. Talking with you was one of the best parts of my day. Your smile and laugh were infectious.”
“I love you baby girl with all my heart. I miss you desperately. I know one day we’ll be together again. Until then, rest easy and in peace,” April said.
In lieu of flowers, April encouraged Cheslie’s fans and followers to donate to the organization Dress for Success, which she supports. She also reminded those going through depression and suicidal moments to seek help via the National Suicide Hotline.
Cheslie Kryst, who competed in Miss Universe 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia died on Sunday, January 30. Autopsy reports confirmed that she died after committing suicide.
Pageant and Entertainment Industry Still in Shocked
Cheslie Kryst’s friends in the pageant and entertainment industry are still trying to make sense of her untimely death. Following the news of her passing, many of her colleagues including the staff of Extra TV and the Miss Universe Organization led by its president Paula Shugart remembered her in several tributes.
“Our hearts are broken. Cheslie was not just a vital part of our show, she was a beloved part of our ‘Extra’ family and touched the entire staff. Our deepest condolences to all her family and friends,” Extra TV said in a statement.
“The Miss Universe and Miss USA Organizations are devastated to learn about the loss of Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst. She was one of the brightest, warmest, and most kind people we have ever had the privilege of knowing, and she lit up every room she entered. Our entire community mourns her loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time,” the organization said in a statement.
Seek help
In a time when the world continues to battle COVID-19, it’s important to check on every person close to you including those who may look strong on the outside but suffering inside. Seek help and talk to friends and family if needed. Several organizations are also offering help to listen to your problems. You are not alone in the fight to better emotional and mental health.
If you know anyone going through tough times or thinking of taking their life, you may call the Natasha Gouldbourn Foundation for help at (02) 804-HOPE (4673), 0917 558 HOPE (4673), or 2919 (toll-free number for all GLOBE and TM subscribers) or seek help via Mental Health Matters PH through their Instagram or through Mental Health PH via their hotline 0917-899-8727 or 02-7-989-8727.
Check out more stories on helping you get through tough times on Modern Parenting
How To Talk To Kids About Death
Postpartum Depression: Yes, It’s Real
How To Approach Mental Health with Kids
7 Ways to Keep Yourself Mentally Healthy
