The 2022 NFL season was marked by heartbreak moments on the field. One such incident involved Tua Tagovailoa, who experienced temporary memory loss after hitting his head on the turf during a tackle in September 2022. Odell Beckham Jr. also faced adversity, missing his chance to win the Super Bowl due to an ACL injury. And how can one forget the fear of nearly losing a player on the field?

The Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin left everyone in shock when he went into cardiac arrest during a game with Cincinnati Bengals. The medical team’s exceptional efforts saved Hamlin’s life after the terrifying incident. However, in recent months, Hamlin has been gradually recovering and was able to participate in the Bills’ OTAs last month, and also had a moment during the 2023 ESPY event. In a gesture of gratitude, he once expressed his support for the medical heroes who played a vital role in his recovery.

Returning the love to the medical staff!

Damar Hamlin experienced a collapse during a game on January 2, due to cardiac arrest. Following his recovery and being declared in good health, he decided to shift the spotlight to those who played a crucial role in saving his life. In January, he took to Twitter to share a link to “Did We Win?” t-shirts. These shirts were available in white and black colors, featuring the text “Did We Win?” accompanied by hands forming a heart symbol.

According to reports, the shirts were priced at $33, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting first responders and the University of Cincinnati trauma center, where Hamlin received treatment. Not only did Hamlin promote these t-shirts, but he also recently expressed his gratitude towards the first responders who played a pivotal role in saving his life after his cardiac arrest.

An emotional night for Hamlin at ESPY

Six months following the harrowing incident, Damar Hamlin took center stage at the 2023 ESPY Awards to announce the recipients of the Pat Tillman Award for Service. In a heartfelt video, Hamlin shared his story, expressing that neither he nor the Bills’ training staff expected that fateful day to unfold the way it did.

Read more: “Trying to Process the Trauma”: Damar Hamlin Reveals the Contrast Between His Physical and Mental State in the Aftermath of His Near-Death Experience

He said, “What I’ve taken away from what happened to me six and a half months ago, is that any of us at any given time are capable of doing something that’s incredible, in saving a life and living a life in service to others.”

Tears streamed down Hamlin’s cheeks as he presented the award to the remarkable group on stage, recognizing their efforts that allowed him to still be present amongst us after the life-threatening scare.

With the new season of the league drawing near, the anticipation grows among the Bills Mafia, eagerly awaiting Damar Hamlin’s return to the field, after his near-fatal experience.

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