Kansas City, Missouri – A former Chiefs cheerleader, Krystal Anderson, tragically passed away from complications with sepsis just days after giving birth to her stillborn daughter.
Her husband, Clayton, is now advocating for better maternal healthcare for women of color, highlighting the disparities and challenges faced by Black women during and after pregnancy.
The couple had previously experienced the loss of their first child, James, who was stillborn in 2022, adding to the heartbreak of Krystal’s passing.
Krystal’s death, caused by cardiac arrest due to sepsis, has shed light on the need for improved care and support for Black women in the healthcare system, particularly during the vulnerable postpartum period.
Clayton shared his grief over losing “the love of his life” and expressed frustration with the healthcare system for not identifying Krystal as high-risk earlier, given her age and history of a previous pregnancy loss.
The lack of specialized care plans for women of color, who are at a higher risk for pregnancy-related complications, has sparked conversations about the need for more personalized and comprehensive maternal healthcare services.
Despite taking preventive measures during her pregnancy, such as undergoing procedures to remove fibroids and ensure cervical viability, Krystal still faced complications that ultimately led to her tragic passing.
As Clayton reflects on Krystal’s legacy, he hopes to see positive changes in the healthcare system, including increased diversity in STEM fields, better outcomes for Black women in pregnancy, and greater awareness about stillbirth pregnancies.
The outpouring of tributes and support for Krystal, a beloved cheerleader and advocate for women’s health, serves as a reminder of the impact she had on those around her and the need for ongoing efforts to improve maternal healthcare for all women.