Advocate Spotlight: Crystal Ball

Crystal, a fit Portland mom, nearly became a statistic: 90% of people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital don’t survive, often because they don’t receive CPR in time. In 2020, after a run, Crystal collapsed at home. Her husband called for their son to dial 911, and the dispatcher calmly coached them through Hands-Only CPR until first responders arrived. Despite pandemic barriers, the team acted fast, and Crystal survived.

Her story is a powerful example of the American Heart Association’s “Nation of Lifesavers” movement—empowering people to recognize cardiac arrest, call 911, start CPR, and support systems of care so more families get a second chance.

Crystal spent three days in a coma and received an implantable defibrillator. Doctors discovered her cardiac arrest was caused by an electrical issue, not a heart attack. Now, she shares her story to inspire others to learn CPR.

Survival isn’t just about one heroic moment—it’s a relay. From bystanders and dispatchers to EMS and hospitals, every link in the chain of survival matters. The American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® program helps hospitals and EMS teams use evidence-based protocols to improve outcomes and ensure patients get the right care at the right time.

Crystal’s message is clear: “The chances of surviving cardiac arrest are too low, but they don’t have to be. Raising awareness about CPR could save so many more lives.” By learning Hands-Only CPR—call 911, push hard and fast in the center of the chest, and keep going until help arrives—anyone can help build a Nation of Lifesavers.

This CPR and AED Awareness Week, take a few minutes to learn Hands-Only CPR. You could be the difference for someone you love.