Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin continues to improve after he collapsed on the field after a tackle during Monday Night Football.
On Thursday, news surfaced that Hamlin had regained consciousness. Doctors reported that his neurologic function remains intact and he was communicating with his family and care team.
By Friday, Hamlin was able to make a surprise visit to a Bills team meeting via FaceTime. According to Coach Bill’s coach Sean McDermot, Hamlin flexed his muscles and did his signature heart symbol.
Love this, from Sean McDermott:
Damar Hamlin flexed to his teammates, adding “I love you, boys” while FaceTiming with the Bills today. #DamarHamlin pic.twitter.com/eI2GX9nXMS— John Chandler (@JohnChandlerNBC) January 6, 2023
In describing how Bills staff was able to get the FaceTime with Damar Hamlin on the video screen in the team meeting room today, McDermott said: “He was larger than life in there for us.”
— Coley Harvey (@ColeyHarvey) January 6, 2023
McDermott also shared his emotional reaction to Hamlin’s recovery and news that Hamlin’s GoFundMe, to support children in need, received a flood of donations beginning Monday night. The fund raised approximately $10,000 since its inception in 2020 prior to Monday night. By Friday, over $8 million has been raised.
“It’s amazing to know the impact that this has had on so many people. And for Damar to be awake and his mom to be able to share that with him is incredible.”
Sean McDermott on Damar Hamlin’s progress: https://t.co/Ljqly3mIUm pic.twitter.com/AZY6MjRjyf
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) January 5, 2023
McDermott joined many others in freely expressing his faith during this difficult time.
“Glory to God for his keeping Damar and his family in the palm of his hand over the last couple of days.”
Powerful words from Bills head coach Sean McDermott on Damar Hamlin pic.twitter.com/G4D8CGeQkZ
— Sports Spectrum (@Sports_Spectrum) January 5, 2023
Denny Kellington, a Bills assistant athletic trainer, has received accolades for swiftly administering CPR. His quick reaction likely prevented potential neurological complications.
After Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest on Monday night, the man who administered CPR was Bills assistant athletic trainer Denny Kellington.
His speed and skill were “absolutely vital,” per @AlbertBreer. pic.twitter.com/0LmD9GAtsI
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) January 5, 2023
