Mother Of Charlotte Native And Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst Releases Statement Following Daughter’s Death
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April Simpkins, mother of Cheslie Kryst, released a statement in regards to her daughter’s tragic death over the weekend:
I have never known a pain as deep as this. I am forever changed.
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.
While her life on this earth was short, it was filled with many beautiful memories. 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.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Dress for Success, an organization that was dear to her heart. If you or anyone else is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255.
Thank you all for continuing to respect the privacy of our family while we grieve.
Original Story Posted: January 31, 2022
CHARLOTTE, NC – A vigil was held on Monday night for Cheslie Kryst. She’s the Charlotte native and Miss USA 2019 who died Sunday of an apparent suicide. Reaction to her death continues to pour in from neighbors, friends, and coworkers.
The family of Cheslie Kryst reacted to her death, saying in a statement “she cared, she loved, she laughed, she shined.”
Kryst died after an apparent suicide at her New York apartment. Posting on Instagram the night before, “May this day bring you rest and peace.”
“She was so much fun to work with. She was very energetic, bright smile, always happy. She was very dedicated to her causes,” said Tate Ogburn, a partner at the Charlotte law firm Kryst worked at. Ogburn says she used her law degree to fight for criminal justice. Often for free.
“I think we should all remember her passion and her energy and her desire to do good in the community and try and emulate that,” said Ogburn.
Following her Miss USA win, Kryst landed a job at the tv show Extra and could be seen conducting interviews on the red carpet.
The Miss America Organization saying “Cheslie was an incredible example and a role model for so many.”
Kryst was open about her personal struggles, speaking on world mental health day in 2019.
Kryst’s death bringing awareness about mental health and the deep rooted societal issues.
“Until society recognizes mental health is health. It’s okay not to be okay and to get rid of the stigma that surrounds mental health. Suicides rates are going to continue to soar,” said Fonda Bryant, a Charlotte area mental health advocate.
She says smiles can hide a lot of pain, and that reaching out to start a conversation can be life saving.
“If we ask someone if they’re suicidal, it brings down anxiety. Opens up conversation. Gives them a chance to express how they feel. And gives you a chance to help them,” said Bryant.
