My daughter Makensie texted me not long ago, “We should go to the Catawba Science Center today.”
It’s only approximately an hour away in Hickory, NC, so I thought, why not? Let’s roll.
Hours later, we went on another adventure, which I love doing with my husband, son-in-law, daughter, and grandson. Doing something different from your routine helps you escape any stagnant rut. As we were on the way, I received a text from a mom wanting to schedule an appointment for their adult child who was having suicidal thoughts. I encouraged her to call 988 Lifeline immediately; they stated they had tested the line the night before. This exchange made me think of Cheslie Kryst because her mother is a mental health advocate and spreads that resource.
Cheslie Kryst was an American television correspondent, model, and beauty pageant titleholder. She was also an attorney and a correspondent for the TV show Extra from October 2019 until her death. She was nominated for two Daytime Emmy Awards for her work on Extra. As Miss USA 2019, Kryst represented the United States at Miss Universe 2019, reaching the Top 10. She was the third woman from North Carolina to win Miss USA.
On January 30, 2022, Chelsie died by suicide by jumping from The Orion, a 60-story high-rise apartment building in Midtown Manhattan, where she lived. The coroner ruled her death as suicide. Her mother, April Simpkins, released a statement stating that Chelsie had “high-functioning depression.
Even though my daughter was briefly in the pageant world, I don’t think I ever spoke to Cheslie’s mother. Cheslie was a Miss; many Miss’s mothers did not attend meetings, but Teen contestant mothers had to get our teens there.
We arrived at Catawba Science Center, which shares the building with the Hickory Museum of Art. The latter is housed in what was Old Hickory High School and, from 1925 to 1972, Claremont Central High. From 1880 to 1915, it was Claremont Female College.
We were at the aquarium by 2:00 p.m. for the Oceans Planetarium exhibit. We settled into our seats just as the lights went out, and the show began. I saw stars light up, and then LEGENDS of THE NIGHT SKY and Orion. I smiled, thinking of Cheslie Kryst, what a Legend she is, and how admired she continues to be.
My daughter participated in the Miss America and Miss USA systems with Cheslie and many other talented women. Chelsie competed in the Miss division, and my daughter in the Teen.
I shared a few pleasant words with Cheslie when we were around her within the pageant systems. They were simple exchanges like, “How are you,” “You look stunning,” and “Thank you.” From my perspective, Cheslie always had a presence when she walked into the room you took notice of.
She did nothing specifically; that’s the energy and presence she exuded. She always did well due to beauty, intelligence, talents, experience, education, and character. I always loved to watch her compete, and she was always predicted to do well. The night Cheslie won Miss North Carolina USA 2019, my daughter was named 1st runner-up to Miss North Carolina USA Teen 2019 Eliza Minor. Cheslie went on to be crowned and serve as Miss USA 2019, and what a remarkable job she did as a spokesperson for all women.
I remember being in my office on January 30, 2022, and seeing reports online that Miss USA Cheslie Kryst’s tragic death of suicide from The Orion in midtown Manhattan. During that time, I was still writing my own trauma story within the pages of my book, Loved Just As I Am. I went numb from shock and remember thinking this can’t be true.
Even though I know from the World Health Organization that for every suicide, there are an estimated 20 suicide attempts.
Globally, the International Association for Suicide Prevention shares that over 700,000 die each reach from suicide, and that number is on the rise.
Suicide can occur at any stage of life. Because I was writing about my mental health struggles at the time, her death seemed much more surreal and heartbreaking.
Her mother, April Simpkins, bravely took Cheslie’s words from a book Cheslie was going to publish and finished it for her. I highly recommend By the Time You Read This by Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins. I hear a lot from individuals who have attempted to be a mental health counselor, and people want to know if anyone would care. Cheslie’s mother, April Simpkins, gives a vulnerable and compassionate answer for many to hear. Knowing that everyone struggles and many of us tend to hide it well. Cheslie and her mother’s vulnerability with their words will save many lives.
I will continue to hold a torch for all Cheslie advocated, including liberty and Justice. My daughter and I, who always admired Cheslie, spoke her name as we watched the Legends of the Sky, Orion.
I admire and applaud her mother for all she is advocating for worldwide.
If you’re going through a tough time, know you’re not alone. Reach out for support, practice self-care, and remember that healing and growth are possible. Sending love and positive vibes your way.
One More Thing
In only a few months, I will celebrate the third anniversary of releasing my book, Loved Just As I Am. Some days, it feels like this milestone of publishing my first book was 100 years ago, and sometimes it still feels like yesterday.
What hasn’t changed in three years is the incredible pride I feel for writing and publishing a book. Writing a book, especially about past traumas and events, is not for the faint of heart!
Within the pages of my book, I share my personal story of resilience and growth. From childhood wounds to struggles with relationships and addiction, this memoir offers a robust roadmap to healing and embracing your true worth.
This book has had many victories (it landed the coveted #1 in New Releases spot on Amazon!), as well as many struggles and hurtful moments.
And I wouldn’t change a thing.
The trials, tribulations, and triumphs are all worth it if they can bring comfort and clarity to even just one person.
Own your story. You never know who it may help or what you could learn. 
Loved Just As I Am by Melissa McDaniel, M.Ed., LCMHC, NCC, shares a thirty-year journey of learning and healing from pain and shame, letting go of judgment and control, and never losing sight of the knowledge God loves unconditionally. McDaniel now uses her complete understanding of compassion and abuse to help others cope and heal.
This book is available on Amazon, Kindle, and my business website.
