By Caroline Gaspich
Former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader Krystal “Krissy” Anderson tragically died at the age of 40 shortly after giving birth to her daughter.
The official Chiefs cheerleadingInstagram page shared the heartbreaking news that Krystal unexpectedly passed away after giving birth to her daughter Charlotte Willow Anderson. The young mother's death came after she spiked a fever following the stillborn birth of her baby, according to her husband Clayton Anderson. He explained that she battled with a life-threatening case of sepsis.
In the official Chiefs post, they broke the devastating news of Krystal's death to her fans writing: "We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of CC alum Krystal. Krissy cheered with us for over 100 games from 2006-2011 and 2013-2016," and added: "During that time, she attended the Pro Bowl as the Chiefs representative in 2015, served as a captain of her team, cheered during the London game, and visited our troops around the world, including in Iraq, Kuwait, and throughout the United States."
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The statement continued: "We will miss her kind spirit, joyful energy, and her sparkle. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones. We will cherish every moment we had with her. At a later date, we will share how we will continue to honor her legacy."
According to a GoFundMe page created in her memory, Krystal died after a fight with health/what-sepsis-signs-symptoms-treatment-7246541>sepsis which led to organ failure. She underwent three surgeries to address the deadly condition but the source of the infection remain elusive. Krystal passed away in the early hours of March 20 in the hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Hundreds of fans commented on the post sharing an outpour of love for the former cheerleader and sharing their fondest memories of the talented athlete. One person wrote: "The true definition of a G.E.M. None of our hearts will ever be the same from knowing and losing such a special person. May or hearts always love on others like Krissy did. Love you, Kiki."
Another added: "Literally watched her grow up on Chiefs and blossom into the most kind hearted, beautiful, and talented woman. We are truly missing a star on earth now." And Tavia Hunt, the wife of Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, commented: “A profound loss for our team, organization, and anyone who ever crossed her path. We love & miss you Krissy. Hug Lamar & Norma for us.”
Krystal enjoyed many talents outside of being a cheerleader. She was also a yoga instructor, software engineer, and philanthropist. As an engineer at Oracle Health, Krissy worked to make contributions to improve healthcare and was awarded a patent for developing software that assesses the risk of postpartum haemorrhage.
A loving tribute was written in memory of Krissy on her obituary that read: "Krystal radiated joy and laughter to everyone she encountered," and added: "She was passionate about philanthropy, working with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of KC, Gabriella's Little Library, and the First Hand Foundation. She fiercely advocated for Black women in STEM and women's health."
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