A husband and father-to-be in Kansas City is mourning the loss of his wife and their unborn child. Krystal Anderson, 40, was reportedly 21 weeks pregnant with her daughter, Charlotte Willow, when the family found out the baby no longer had a heartbeat. The mother delivered the child "at rest" and reportedly spiked a fever a short time later.
Her husband, Clayton Anderson, told WDAF his wife suffered from sepsis after the stillbirth that led to organ failure, and despite several surgeries, she did not survive. Krystal Anderson spent several years as a cheerleader for the Kansas City Chiefs, and the cheer squad shares in the family's grief.
More from CafeMom: Devastated Family Grieves Young Mom Who Died From Childbirth Complications
Her husband is heartbroken.
Clayton Anderson told WDAF that life is different without his wife, and he feels empty. He remembers his wife as a good person who everyone loved.
"She was an absolute force for good. She made every room just light up," Anderson said.
Shanna Adamic agreed and spoke highly of her friend of 18 years. "She was kindness, she was sass, she was joy, and I think that she really imprinted on our hearts," Adamic said, "and not just our, but those in the community."
Her death was sudden and unexpected.
Per her obituary, Anderson died March 20 after giving birth to her daughter. She was preceded in death by an infant son, James Charles (also a stillborn) and Charlotte Willow. She and her husband married in 2021 and lived in Leawood, Kansas. She was an accomplished woman who spent a lot of time giving back to her community.
She will be remembered by the many organizations she served.
Her obituary states she spent countless hours working to help others.
"Krystal radiated joy and laughter to everyone she encountered. 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," her obituary reads.
She loved family and friends and appeared to live life to the fullest.
"In her spare time, she enjoyed dancing, laughing with her sisters, practicing and teaching yoga, dinners with exotic and spicy food, and spending couch time with her husband and their two dogs, Sprocket and Louie," it continues.
Krystal Anderson was well-loved in the Kansas City area.
According to the @chiefscheer Instagram page, Anderson cheered with the team for more than 100 games over 10 seasons and was an essential part of the team. She will be remembered for her bubbly personality and kindness.
"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 ❤️ ," the post reads.
More from CafeMom: 14-Year-Old Girl Catches Fire While Removing Nail Polish Near Lit Candle
Her memory will live on.
Loved ones created a GoFundMe account to help ensure Anderson's hard work and passion will remain in her community.
"Now, we invite you to join us in celebrating Krissy's legacy and supporting her amazing husband, Clayton. Your support will help cover the medical expenses incurred during her fight, contribute to a meaningful memorial service, and establish a legacy fund," the fundraiser description reads. "This fund will support causes and initiatives that were close to Krissy's heart. Let's ensure that her name lives on, not only in our memories but also in the positive actions we take in her honor. Together, we can continue the magic she brought into our lives and make a difference for others."
It has surpassed an original goal of $25,000 and raised more than $70,000 thus far.
"For our sweet kind and loving Krissy. She was a bright light in our family. Her smile. Her laugh. Her thoughtfulness. The holiday dinners, tailgates and other family celebrations…we love and miss you Krissy. – Your Jones Denmon Hill Family," one donor wrote.
