Damar Hamlin's Incredible Journey: From Cardiac Arrest Survivor to Triumphant Return in Buffalo Bills Game
Buffalo Bills' Damar Hamlin overcomes cardiac arrest to make triumphant return to the field, calling it an 'amazing' experience
Damar Hamlin Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images
Damar Hamlin expressed his immense joy at returning to the field following a significant health scare earlier this year. The 25-year-old shared his gratitude in a press conference, recalling the indescribable feeling of running through the tunnel alongside his Buffalo Bills teammates on October 1st, during their game against the Miami Dolphins. Hamlin humbly noted that he was the final player to step onto the field that day.
"I believe it was more about making a personal promise to myself, rather than anything else. It was a way of proving to myself that I possess the courage, strength, and pride needed to overcome such a traumatic experience and come out stronger. It is truly incredible to be able to continue pursuing my passion at the highest level in the world." Hamlin expressed. "After experiencing cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 2, I made my first appearance in the regular season on Sunday. Although I was declared healthy for the first three weeks of the season, I did not have the opportunity to play until Bills' starting safety, Jordan Poyer, suffered a knee injury. Prior to Sunday's game, I participated in all three of Buffalo's preseason games and successfully tallied nine tackles."
Damar Hamlin #3 of the Buffalo Bills prepares for the game against the Miami Dolphins at Highmark Stadium on October 1, 2023, in Orchard Park, New York. The return of Hamlin to the field was met with enthusiasm by Bills coach Sean McDermott, who described it as a "surreal moment" to witness him joining the team. McDermott, 49, expressed admiration for Hamlin's selfless attitude, stating that he appreciates how Hamlin prioritizes the team. "Nine months ago, he was facing challenging circumstances, and now he has made a remarkable comeback," McDermott shared with reporters on Sunday.
Hamlin found himself in the hospital in January following a forceful blow to his chest during a game. The impact caused him to collapse on the field, requiring immediate medical attention that lasted for approximately 20 minutes. In light of his condition, Hamlin was swiftly transported to the hospital, leading to a delay in the game and its eventual cancellation.
Despite the critical state Hamlin was in, he received the necessary treatment during this time.
Hamlin, #3 of the Buffalo Bills, tackled Higgins, #85 of the Cincinnati Bengals, in the first quarter of an NFL football game at Paycor Stadium on January 2, 2023, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Following his hospital stay in Cincinnati, Hamlin was then transported to Buffalo, where he underwent an additional two-day treatment at Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute.
Hamlin expressed his desire to return to football in April after making a full recovery. By May, he had resumed practicing with the team. However, three months later, he admitted to experiencing a range of emotions about his decision to come back.
According to Hamlin, hesitation is not an option in football as it can lead to greater danger. Despite feeling some fear, he made the conscious choice to play. He acknowledges that the thought of being scared occasionally crosses his mind, but he finds strength in his faith, which he believes surpasses any fear. His intention is to promote this message to the world.
In this article
