Kelley Mack, an actress known for her work on popular TV shows like The Walking Dead, 9-1-1 and Chicago Med, has died at 33. The American-born star died in her hometown of Cincinnati over the weekend, according to her family, on Saturday, Aug. 2. “It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley,” reads a statement from her sister, Kathryn Klebenow, posted on Tuesday, Aug 5. “Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go. “Kelley passed peacefully on Saturday evening with her loving mother Kristen and steadfast aunt Karen present. Kelley has already come to many of her loved ones in the form of various butterflies. She will be missed by so many to depths that words cannot express.”
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Kathryn shared a longer obituary online, noting her sister — whose real name is Kelley Lynne Klebenow — grew up in various states in addition to Ohio, including Missouri, Connecticut, North Carolina and Illinois. However, she lived and worked in the Los Angeles area for the past 11 years, and earned 35 actress and five producer credits within her career. “She is survived by her mother and father, Kristen and Lindsay Klebenow, sister Kathryn, brother Parker, grandmother and grandfather Lois and Larry Klebenow and her dearest boyfriend, Logan Lanier,” the statement added.
On Instagram, people she worked with on various sets chimed in to share their condolences. Kathryn added in the post’s caption that Kelley “would want you all to know how much she loves you.”
Remembering Kelley Mack: A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Hollywood was struck with grief when the tragic news of Kelley Mack’s death at age 33 broke out. Known for her roles in ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘9-1-1,’ Mack’s vibrant spirit and talent captured hearts. But what shocked fans even more was the cause of her death—a rare brain cancer known as glioma.
This article dives deep into what glioma is, who’s at risk, its symptoms, treatments, and how to stay proactive. If you’ve never heard of this disease, you’re not alone. But by the end of this article, you’ll know why it deserves attention.
What Is a Glioma?
A Silent Intruder in the Brain
A glioma is a type of tumor that starts in the glial cells of the brain or spinal cord. These cells support nerve cells, and when they turn cancerous, they can become deadly. Gliomas are one of the most common types of brain tumors, yet they’re also among the most mysterious and dangerous.
Different Types of Gliomas
Not All Gliomas Are the Same
Gliomas are categorized based on the type of glial cells involved and how fast they grow:
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Astrocytomas – Arise from star-shaped glial cells; some are fast-growing.
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Oligodendrogliomas – Tend to grow slowly but can become aggressive.
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Ependymomas – Develop in cells lining the brain’s ventricles.
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Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) – The most aggressive and deadly form.
Mack’s exact glioma subtype was not disclosed, but many adult cases involve GBM.
How Common Is Glioma?
A Rare But Dangerous Diagnosis
Although gliomas account for about 30% of all brain tumors, they are still considered rare. Glioblastomas affect around 13,000 Americans each year, making them a top concern in neuro-oncology circles but not widely known among the general public.
Who Is at Risk of Glioma?
Is Anyone Truly Safe?
You might be wondering, “Could this happen to me?” Here’s a breakdown of risk factors:
Age Matters
Gliomas are more common in adults between 45-65, but younger patients—like Kelley Mack—can also be affected.
Gender Differences
Men are slightly more likely to develop gliomas than women.
Radiation Exposure
People exposed to high doses of ionizing radiation have a greater risk.
Genetics
Inherited conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome or neurofibromatosis may increase susceptibility.
Environmental Triggers?
There’s no solid evidence linking cellphone use or lifestyle to glioma, but research is ongoing.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
When to See a Doctor
The symptoms of glioma often mimic everyday issues, making early detection tricky:
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Persistent headaches
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Seizures
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Sudden personality or mood changes
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Memory loss or confusion
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Vision or speech problems
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Nausea and vomiting
If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t shrug them off. Get checked.
How Is Glioma Diagnosed?
The Tests That Matter
Doctors use multiple tools to identify gliomas:
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MRI Scans – Show the tumor’s size and location
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CT Scans – Useful in emergencies
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Biopsy – Confirms the type and grade
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Neurological Exams – Check reflexes, balance, and mental clarity
Early diagnosis can save lives.
Glioma Treatment Options
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Approach
Treatment depends on the tumor type, size, and location. Common treatments include:
1. Surgery
If operable, the tumor is partially or fully removed.
2. Radiation Therapy
Used post-surgery or when surgery isn’t possible.
3. Chemotherapy
Drugs like temozolomide may slow growth.
4. Targeted Therapy
Some drugs target specific mutations in cancer cells.
5. Clinical Trials
Offer hope when conventional treatments fail.
What’s the Prognosis for Glioma?
A Rollercoaster of Outcomes
Sadly, gliomas—especially **glioblastomas—**have poor survival rates. The average survival time after diagnosis is 12 to 18 months for GBM.
But some patients beat the odds with early diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and strong support systems.
Kelley Mack’s Legacy
More Than Just an Actress
Kelley wasn’t just a talented performer. She was an advocate, a storyteller, and a fighter. Her death shines a light on a terrifyingly under-discussed disease. Her legacy now lives in her work—and in the growing awareness of glioma.
Why Glioma Awareness Matters
We Talk About Breast Cancer. Why Not Brain Cancer?
Gliomas don’t get the attention they deserve. Why? Maybe because they’re rare. Maybe because they’re hard to detect early. But people like Kelley Mack prove that it can happen to anyone.
Raising awareness could lead to:
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More funding for research
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Earlier diagnoses
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Better treatments
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Longer survival rates
Living With Glioma: Stories of Strength
While Kelley’s battle ended in tragedy, many others live on. Support groups, online communities, and medical advancements are making a difference for thousands of glioma patients.
How You Can Protect Your Brain Health
While there’s no guaranteed prevention, you can reduce your general cancer risk by:
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Eating a clean, anti-inflammatory diet
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Limiting exposure to unnecessary radiation
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Exercising regularly
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Staying mentally active
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Reporting unusual symptoms early
Speak Up, Get Screened, Stay Safe
Your brain is your control center. If something feels off, don’t wait it out. Push for tests, ask hard questions, and trust your gut. Awareness can be the first line of defense.
Final Thoughts
Kelley Mack’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility. She was young, vibrant, successful—and still fell victim to a disease most people don’t even know exists. Her life and passing now serve a greater purpose: to spark conversations about glioma and to push for greater research and awareness.
