Trigger Warning: This article has references to death.
Anna Cardwell, known as Chickadee, gained attention in March 2023 when news broke of her stage 4 adrenal carcinoma diagnosis. Tragically, she passed away at 29 on December 9, leaving behind moments shared with her family, including her mother, June ‘Mama June’ Shannon, daughter Kaitlyn, siblings Alana ‘Honey Boo Boo’ Thompson and Lauren ‘Pumpkin’ Efird, and boyfriend Eldridge Toney.
What was the cause of Anna Cardwell’s death?
Anna Cardwell used to give health updates on Social Media
Despite undergoing three rounds of chemotherapy, Anna remained connected to her followers through social media. She regularly updated her health journey on Instagram and TikTok, sharing not only posts but also livestreams, providing insights into her cancer battle. Her determination to stay engaged with her supporters was evident in her efforts to go live on TikTok weekly, even using the platform to promote her favorite chocolate snacks.
Mama June’s revealed that Anna’s cancer was terminal
In July 2023, Mama June emotionally revealed that Anna’s cancer was terminal. Facing this harsh reality, Anna and her family navigated the challenges with strength and resilience. Mama June emphasized the unpredictable nature of the aggressive cancer, prompting uncertainty about the next steps in Anna’s treatment. The family contemplated immune therapy or clinical trials, but with the terminal diagnosis, they also considered end-of-life options for Anna to live out her remaining days.
What were Anna’s diagnosis and treatment?
Anna’s diagnosis of stage 4 adrenal carcinoma, a rare cancer affecting the outer layer of the adrenal gland, was publicly disclosed in March 2023. This aggressive form of cancer had already spread to other parts of her body, making the prognosis challenging. Anna’s journey involved multiple rounds of chemotherapy, a demanding process she shared with her followers. The family faced the complexities of treatment decisions, including potential options like immune therapy and clinical trials.
What is adrenal carcinoma?
Adrenal carcinoma is a rare disease with risk factors such as specific genetic conditions. Symptoms include abdominal pain, and diagnosis involves blood and urine tests. The prognosis depends on various factors, including the cancer stage, the patient’s age, and their overall health. Anna’s diagnosis at stage 4 indicated the cancer’s extensive spread.
Anna’s health journey timeline
Anna faced her health battle from January 2023 until her unfortunate passing in December. Throughout this period, she shared glimpses of her life, treatment, and family interactions on social media. Despite the challenges, Anna maintained a positive spirit, as seen in a photo with Mama June during a hospital visit in April 2023. Family support played a crucial role, with Mama June stepping up to be there for Anna during her illness.
Family bonding amid health battle
As Anna continued her treatment, her relationship with Mama June deepened during that period. In May 2023, Anna shared heartwarming photos from her daughter Kaitlyn’s elementary school graduation, expressing pride and love for her girls. The family celebrated milestones amid the health journey, creating cherished memories during challenging times.
Mama June announced Anna’s demise
On December 8, 2023, Mama June shared a video updating followers on Anna’s condition, requesting prayers, and emphasizing the importance of creating lasting memories. Tragically, Mama June announced Anna’s peaceful passing on December 10, 2023, expressing gratitude for the fight Anna put up and asking for continued prayers for the grieving family.
