THE TRAGIC REALITY OF MENTAL ILLNESS

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In a world where success is often equated with happiness, the sudden loss of someone like Cheslie Kryst serves as a stark reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that even the brightest lights can be dimmed by the darkness of mental illness.

 "By the Time You Read This" offers an intimate glimpse into the life of Cheslie Kryst, former Miss USA, through her own words and the reflections of her grieving mother, April Simpkins.

Cheslie Kryst seemed to have it all—a shining career as an attorney, the title of Miss USA, and a promising future as an entertainment journalist. 

Yet, behind the glamour and the accolades, Cheslie battled with something far more insidious: depression. 

Her manuscript, penned before her untimely death, chronicles her journey from triumph to despair, offering a raw and unfiltered account of the highs and lows that characterized her life.

For many, Cheslie's story may seem incomprehensible. 

How could someone so accomplished, so seemingly full of life, succumb to the depths of despair? 

But therein lies the danger of assuming that success is a shield against mental illness. 

As Cheslie's mother, April, bravely shares, the pressures of perfectionism, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health, can create a toxic cocktail that is all too often fatal.

April's narrative serves as a poignant reminder that the aftermath of suicide is not confined to the individual who takes their own life—it ripples outwards, touching the lives of family members, friends, and communities. 

In the wake of Cheslie's passing, April grapples with the profound grief of losing a child, while also searching for meaning in the midst of tragedy.

Yet, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope. 

Through "By the Time You Read This," Cheslie's legacy lives on, not only in the memories of those who knew her but also in the form of the Cheslie C. Kryst Foundation. 

By sharing her story, Cheslie and April hope to raise awareness about the reality of mental illness and to provide support for those who are struggling.

As readers, we are invited to confront our own misconceptions about mental health and to recognize the importance of reaching out to those who may be suffering in silence. 

Cheslie's journey serves as a powerful reminder that behind every smile, there may be hidden pain, and that true strength lies not in perfection, but in vulnerability and resilience.

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