Bills safety Damar Hamlin shared a story of hope from one ICU doctor as the NFL honored the training and medical staffs who cared for him. Standing ovations was given to medical personnel from the Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills, and the University of Cincinnati Medical Center during the NFL Honors ceremony on Thursday night.
As they stood on stage, Hamlin spoke about the outpouring of love he got after his life-changing experience at Paycor Stadium.
"The journey will continue." ❤️💙
An incredible moment as @HamlinIsland takes the stage at #NFLHonors. pic.twitter.com/TgqTKSAVKS
— NFL (@NFL) February 10, 2023
“First, I would like to just thank God for even being here,” Hamlin said. “Every day I am amazed that my experiences could encourage so many others across the country and even across the world.”
Doctors said Hamlin had to be resuscitated on the field after having a heart attack. He was admitted to UC Medical Center for many days before being discharged and transferred to a hospital in Buffalo.
While Hamlin always believed that his life’s goal was to inspire others via football, he now sees a bigger picture.”I have a long journey ahead, a journey full of unknowns and a journey full of milestones, but it’s a lot easier to face your fears when you know your purpose,” Hamlin said.
Yet, he expressed concern over his collapse. However, one doctor made him understand that he might return to his normal life.
“My third night awake in the hospital, I met an ICU doctor … he told me had a similar experience, he showed me he was OK and that meant so much to me,” Hamlin said. “There was so much uncertainty at the time, and just him coming to me, showing that I could live a normal life again … meant so much to me at the moment.”
Hamlin thanked the doctor, Yousef, and everyone else who helped in saving his life. He also expressed gratitude to everyone who prayed for him and supported him.
Only a person who was at such a close distance from death can be grateful for having his life and admire those who saved it. No wonder, Damar went through a near-death experience and it was sensible of him to take a moment to appreciate the great service he received from the medical personnel.
