“I do have to say I am very blessed to be able to do this.”
Draven Bennington, 22, whose dad was the late Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington, has revealed she is transgender.
Draven who was previously referred to as ‘he’ has updated her Instagram bio to contain the ‘she/her’ pronouns.
Chester welcomed Draven with his first wife Samantha Olit, who he was married to for nine years from 1996 until they divorced in 2005.
Chester tragically took his own life in 2017 at the age of just 41 but is fondly remembered by his family, friends and fans of the rock band.
On Friday, Draven unveiled a gender transition process that began last August and includes hormone replacement therapy.
She wrote: “As today is a day to celebrate love and what love truly means, whether it’s for a partner, family, or ourselves, I thought it would be a perfect time to show some love to myself.
“For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn’t on the inside. Ignoring it worked for a while, but continuously coming to the crossroads of being happy or being complacent was one I couldn’t keep crossing.”
The 22-year-old added: “In August of last year, I decided to take the path of happiness and being true to myself. I came out as transgender and started hormone replacement therapy, and it has been the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.
“I do have to say I am very blessed to be able to do this, as well as having very supportive family and friends.
“I love each and every one of you who have shown me nothing but love and respect and see me for who I truly am.”
Speaking of her mum, Samantha she said: “Especially Mom, you’ve always unconditionally loved me. I’m so blessed to be your child! I love you to the moon and back!”
She concluded: “With all the support and love I’ve received, I’ve built the strength to love myself. This is why I’m choosing to no longer hide who I am. Love is love. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Fans flocked to the comments to share their support as did her mum who wrote: “I’m so proud of you. I love you with all my heart and soul. You’re my favourite human on the planet. I just want you happy and healthy forever and always.”
