Crystal
Garrett
Official Website
I have lymphedema, the localized swelling of the body caused by an abnormal accumulation of lymph or in other words, body fluid. I was born with this disease and it became visible when I turned 14. It makes my left leg and foot look like I have a sprained ankle all of the time but, in fact, it’s a disease that causes a visible deformity and many problems in my profession as Miss South Carolina 2007 and as a model/actress/singer.
Many people are unaware of these difficulties and I have hesitated to shed light on my disease. I hope that by now revealing this most hidden part of myself, I can begin healing and help others with the same struggle. CLICK THE LE&RN LOGO ABOVE TO READ MY ENTIRE STORY AND LEARN HOW I HAVE BEEN LIVING WITH LYMPHEDEMA.
I have always been an advocate and a volunteer speaker for the American Lung Association because I was diagnosed with allergy-induced asthma at the age of 4 and I understand the life and battle asthmatics deal with on a daily basis. I was told by my doctors at an early age that I would never be able to participate in strenuous activity, nor would I be able to become a singer because of my low lung capacity. Through maintenance and keeping up with my medication I was able to become a professional singer and performer. I also participate in cardio workouts 5 times a week! If I can do it, so can everyone else! In June 2015 I was blessed to be able to attend the Summit on Climate Change and health at the White House in Washington, D.C. with ALA where I spoke on my life battle with asthma and how climate change affects asthmatics and the entire human race. Thank you ALA and Surgeon General Vice Admiral Vivek Murthy for holding such a productive summit! I feel honored to have had the opportunity to be in attendance!
Princess Workshop
Workshop fit for a Princess!
The Princess Workshop, a family and children event that Crystal created through Family Connection, an organization that connects the families of disabled children to other families of disabled children as a support group. The Princess Workshop is a fun day for 12 disabled girls where they all receive makeovers inside and out; where at the close of the workshop, their true potential is realized.
