Cheslie Kryst's Parents Invite Public to Balloon Release for What Would Have Been Her 31st Birthday

Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst's parents said they are "experiencing a remarkable outpouring of love and support for our Cheslie, for which we are tremendously grateful"

Cheslie Kryst attends the "Gossip Girl" New York Premiere at Spring Studios on June 30, 2021 in New York City.
Cheslie Kryst. Photo: Dia Dipasupil/WireImage

Former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst is being honored by her family and loved ones.

Kryst's family has released a statement ahead of what would have been the Extra correspondent's 31st birthday on Thursday.

"On April 28, Cheslie would have turned 31 years old," wrote parents April and David Simpkins. "As that date approaches, we are already experiencing a remarkable outpouring of love and support for our Cheslie, for which we are tremendously grateful."

"Many have asked how best to honor Cheslie's memory on her birthday," they continued. "This is an individual decision, and we would not presume to decide how any fan, friend, or former colleague should remember Cheslie or memorialize her on her upcoming birthday."

However, they noted there are only four "approved organizations that are set up to receive charitable donations in her honor."

Those organizations are Dress For Success – The Cheslie Kryst Women's Advancement Fund; Wake Forest University School of Law – The Cheslie C. Kryst Social Justice Scholarship; University of South Carolina – The Cheslie C. Kryst Scholarship Fund; and The Dean's List – The Cheslie C. Kryst Woman In Media Award.

Her parents said no other groups are currently authorized to use Kryst's name and likeness for advertising or trade, warning against those "seeking to profit improperly from our daughter's memory."

RELATED VIDEO: Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst Dies at 30: 'She Laughed and She Shined,' Says Family

Additionally, Kryst's family will hold a vigil and balloon release on their daughter's birthday, to which the public is invited.

The celebration will take place on Thursday at South Carolina's Fort Mill High School football stadium from 7-8 p.m.

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Kryst, who died by suicide on Jan. 30, has been remembered by loved ones for the positive impact she made.

"Cheslie throughout her life sowed many seeds through her work, her philanthropy, her advocacy, and most importantly, her genuine care for others," her mother said during Kryst's February memorial service, reported The Charlotte Observer.

Cheslie Kryst
Cheslie Kryst. John Lamparski/Getty Images

April implored others to honor her by becoming "an ally for a community that needs support," according to WIS-TV.

"Organizations that have said Cheslie gave so much to us, it's now time to continue her legacy and give to others on her behalf," family spokesperson LaToya Evans said at the service, per NBC affiliate WCNC.

In a previous statement released after her daughter's death, April shared that while her daughter's "life on this earth was short," it was "filled with many beautiful memories."​​

"Cheslie — to the world, you were a ball of sunshine wrapped in smiles," she wrote. "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."​​

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

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