On Monday night, NFL superstar Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest. During the first quarter of the NFL game between the Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, Hamlin collapsed and was resuscitated on the field.
Within the first quarter of the game, Hamlin made a routine tackle against the Bengals. Just moments after this, he edged backward and fell to the floor.
Medics gave CPR immediately whilst players, coaches, and fans all watched in shock. Around Hamlin, a knee was taken as players and coaches fell silent in prayer.
Hamlin was taken off the field in an ambulance and is now in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Centre. According to his team, Hamlin spent the night in the intensive care unit and is still critically ill. The Buffalo Bills said they are “grateful and thankful for the outpouring of support we have received thus far”.
The notion of sending thoughts and prayers is one that has dominated the outpour of love for Hamlin since his collapse. On NFL live, presenter Dan Orlovsky openly prayed on national television. It was a truly poignant moment which reflected the heart-wrenching feelings that so many are experiencing right now.
On Twitter, NFL teams continue to show their love and support by changing their profile picture to a simple “pray for Damar” and a number 3. From the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings NFL teams have come together at this worrying time.
After Hamlin’s collapse, the game was suspended. Following this, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed the game wouldn’t take place this week.
Who is Damar Hamlin?
Damar Hamlin is an American football player for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL (National Football League). The Buffalo Bills are a professional team, representing the Buffalo metropolitan area. The team was founded in 1960.
Hamlin attended the University of Pittsburgh and during his time there made his way through the ranks of football.
Sport has ways of bringing people together. In the midst of this darkness, people are united in their love for Damar Hamlin.
At only 24 years old, Hamlin’s cardiac arrest is worrying and begs the question as to what caused such a shocking incident. Hamlin remains in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Hospital.