Chrystal Garrison has dedicated her life to emergency medical services, following in the footsteps of her parents, both of whom were Paramedics. Her journey began at a young age, when she confidently told her mother at just 6 years old that she would one day become a Paramedic. She proudly would ride with her parents as a teenager on the ambulance, and upon graduating high school, Chrystal immediately pursued her EMT and Paramedic certifications, starting what would become a remarkable and fulfilling career.

Chrystal joined LifeNet in 2014 as a Paramedic and quickly demonstrated her passion and commitment to her community and patients. In 2018, she earned the role of Field Training Officer (FTO), mentoring and guiding new medics. The following year, in 2019, she advanced to Operations Supervisor in Hot Springs Village, continuing her rise through the ranks. In 2022, Chrystal was promoted to Hot Springs Operations Manager, where she now leads her team with the same care and dedication, she’s always shown her patients and employees.

Throughout her career, Chrystal has taken great pride in treating her patients and their families with the same compassion and respect she would offer her own family. The weight of responsibility she felt the first time she was alone in the back of an ambulance solidified her deep commitment to serving her community, helping people through the worst moments of their lives.

Being recognized as Arkansas’ Star of Life for 2024 came as a complete surprise to Chrystal. She humbly attributes her success to doing her best every day, hoping to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients, their families, and her colleagues. Knowing that her peers nominated her for this prestigious award is a tremendous honor, a testament to the impact she has made in her field.

When Chrystal isn’t managing operations or responding to emergencies, she enjoys spending time with her amazing children, grandson, boyfriend, family, and friends, cherishing the moments spent with loved ones.