Photo: Timothy T Ludwig/Getty
Damar Hamlinis speaking out publicly for the first time since Jan. 2, when hesuffered cardiac arrestduring a game and collapsed in front of thousands of spectators.
The Buffalo Bills safety, 24, took to his Instagram account Saturday to post a video expressing his gratitude for all who helped to save his life during his frightening incident and assisted him on his path to recovery.
Looking in good health, Hamlin spoke directly to the camera: “As I continue to make so much progress recovering, I think it’s finally a good time to share a few things,” he began. “I think it was important for me to wait and speak publicly at the right time, as it was just a lot to process within my own self. Mentally, physically, even spiritually.”
“I can’t tell you how appreciative I am of all the love, all the support, and everything that’s just been coming in my way,” he continued. “What happened to me on Monday Night Football I feel is a direct example of God using me as a vessel to share my passion and my love directly.”
He also thanked his parents, “Who are literally my anchors and my everything, who never left my side the entire time,” plus his little brother, other family members, teammates and friends…and not the least of all, the fans of his franchise, whom he praised as giving “110% support” for the team as a whole.
“Ever since I became a Buffalo Bill, it’s been nothing but genuine love and support,” he noted. “It really encouraged me, and helped me to get through the toughest moments.”
Hamlin was injured early in the first quarterof the Bills' Monday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals after making a tackle. The safety quickly popped back up, before suddenly collapsing. Medical personnel administered CPR to Hamlin and appeared to give him oxygen before the ambulance took him away.
After Hamlin’s collapse, the city of Buffalo showed support for him in many ways, including lighting City Hall and the Niagara Falls Buffalo Bills colors anddonating to Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation community toy drive, which now hasraised more than $7 million.
source: people.com
