Damar Hamlin speaks out publicly for the first time since collapsing on the field on January 2 game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Bills safety collapsed on a hit during the game. Medical officials performed CPR on the field before he was taken away in an ambulance and hospitalized in critical condition. It was later revealed that he had gone into cardiac arrest.
Hamlin took to his Instagram on Saturday to share a video over five minutes in which he thanked all the people who have supported him since his collapse. “As I continue to make so much progress in 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 because it was just a lot to take in myself. Mentally, physically, even spiritually.”
He continued, “I can’t tell you how thankful I am for all the love, all the support, and everything that has just come my way. What happened to me Monday night football I feel it is a direct example of God using me as a vessel to directly share my passion and my love.
The 24-year-old went on to thank several medical professionals who contributed to his recovery, as well as his parents “who are literally my anchors”, his little brother, other family members, his fellow Bills team members and the fans who stood by him.
“Since I became a Buffalo Bill, it’s been nothing but genuine love and support, not even just for me, but everyone’s situation, no matter what it was,” Hamlin said, later adding, “My mind has literally been blown away by all the support I don’t even have the words to express the gratitude for the amount of support.”
Safety was released from the hospital a week after his collapse and returned to Buffalo to continue his recovery.
