The family of Damar Hamlin said Tuesday they are thankful for the outpouring of support they have received in wake of the Bills safety’s injury that caused the 24-year-old to go into cardiac arrest leading to the suspension of Monday’s game between Buffalo and Cincinnati Bengals.
Hamlin’s family said in a statement that they were grateful to the first responders who treated the safety on the field. Hamlin, a 2021 sixth-round draft pick, received CPR for nine minutes and had his heartbeat restored on the field. He was then transported to UC Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition as of early Tuesday morning.
“On behalf of our family, we want to express our sincere gratitude for the love and support shown to Damar during this challenging time,” Hamlin’s family said in a statement. “We are deeply moved by the prayers, kind words and donations from fans around the country. We also want to acknowledge the dedicated first responders and healthcare professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who have provided exceptional care to Damar.
“We feel so blessed to be part of the Buffalo Bills organization and to have their support. We also want to thank Coach [Zac] Taylor and the Bengals for everything they’ve done. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us.”
A statement from the family of #Bills S Damar Hamlin, via @jordonr: pic.twitter.com/VolSLMraUN
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2023
Jordon Rooney, Hamlin’s marketing representative, gave an update on the player on “Good Morning America.”
“I can’t speak specifically on his medical condition, I will say is that he’s fighting, he’s a fighter,” Rooney said.
NFL players took to social media to express their thoughts for Hamlin, with those like Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes tweeting that they were praying for the safety.
Other users shared links to a community toy drive organized by Hamlin, which had surged to more than $3 million in donations after his stated goal was $2,500.
Hamlin collapsed Monday shortly after he took a hit to his chest from wide receiver Tee Higgins’ right shoulder. The safety initially popped right up upon contact, only to fall backward and lay motionless. He lay on the field for almost 20 minutes while medical personnel attended to him and players surrounded him.
We’re praying for Damar and his family this morning in Tampa. Moments like this put into perspective what it means to play this game we love. Thankful for our communities in Cincinnati and Buffalo for the overwhelming level of care and support I know they’ll continue to provide.
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) January 3, 2023
Praying hard.. please be okay man. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) January 3, 2023
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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