Chris Cornell’s Widow Tells Chester Bennington’s Widow Why ‘Stigma’ Needs To End

9
144

Late Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell’s widow Vicky sent a beautiful message to late Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington’s widow Talinda.

Vicky Cornell wrote to Talinda, “Love you @TalindaB So proud of you – no more stigma , it’s time to talk , it’s time for change #320changedirection.”

Talinda wrote back, “Love you sis.”

Talinda Bennington grew up from humble beginnings in Southern California. She married Chester Bennington of Linkin Park in 2005 and instantly had the large, beautiful family she had always dreamed of – becoming stepmother to Chester’s three sons. Chester and Talinda went on to have three more children of their own and together had the joy of raising their six children together.

In 2009, Talinda became a Founding Board Member of Stars of the Season, an annual fundraising event for the newly built Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa, AZ. In the summer of 2017, Talinda lost her husband to depression and addiction. Chester Bennington died by suicide on July 20, 2017. Determined to prevent others in need from suffering alone, Talinda partnered with Give an Hour and the Campaign to Change Direction and launched 320 Changes Direction – an effort named in honor of Chester Bennington whose birthday was March 20th. The goal of 320 Changes Direction is to ensure that families are equipped to understand and support loved ones who are dealing with mental health challenges.

Talinda has become a spokesperson and champion for this effort and speaks regularly on panels, on social media and at events – about the need to change our culture so that those who are suffering emotionally are able to receive the care they deserve. In June 2018, Talinda will be a featured speaker at the Global Summit on Mental Health Culture Change in London.