The entire NFL world held their breaths as Damar Hamlin went down during the Buffalo Bills showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals. Catastrophe hit during the first quarter of the game as Hamlin collided with Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. The 24-year-old got up instinctively but the damage was far beyond comprehension. Fortunately for Hamlin, medical attention was provided immediately as CPR was administered for around ten minutes, as an ambulance stood by. Since then, Hamlin has made a speedy recovery and is busy spreading the word during his tour of Washington. And, it seems even the President of the US is also curious about the young man’s determination and passion for the sport.
The Bills confirmed that Hamlin had suffered a cardiac arrest and was in critical condition. The game was postponed as players from both teams dropped to their knees, chanting prayers under their breath. However, on his way to spread awareness, one of his most notable stops was the White House, as President Joe Biden was one of the many to send wishes Hamlin’s way.
Damar Hamlin will return to the NFL
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The NFL community is waiting eagerly for Damar Hamlin’s return and so does the President of the USA. During his visit to the White House, Hamlin was greeted by Joe Biden and the two shared some heartwarming moments together.
Damar, you've made me – and your country – proud.
Looking forward to watching you lead the way back on the field. pic.twitter.com/ljROej9NBe
— President Biden (@POTUS) March 31, 2023
Accompanied by his family, Hamlin sat down with the President for a one-on-one conversation. After enquiring about his health and well-being, Biden asked Hamlin the big question, “You think you’re going to be able to play?”
To which Hamlin replied with conviction, “Yeah, I think so.”
Read More: Hours After Special Meeting, Inspiring Damar Hamlin Redefines American President in His Own Words
Joe Biden had earlier called Damar Hamlin’s family during his time at the hospital and requested them to visit the White House along with Damar. As it turns out, Damar’s face lit up at the proposition, giving him the strength and courage he needed to recover. Both Damar Hamlin and Joe Biden expressed their mutual admiration for each other, following which Damar pulled out a number 3 jersey with the name Biden on it.
Hamlin is doing all that he can for the community
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Damar Hamlin is out on a mission, raising awareness and ensuring that more automated external defibrillators are available at necessary sites. The recent mishap made Hamlin realize that AEDs were not available during his playing days as a child.
During an event at Capitol Hill, Hamlin said, “Sudden cardiac arrest happens to more than 7,000 kids under the age of 18 every year in our country – 7,000 kids every year. The majority of the kids impacted are student-athletes, and research shows that 1 in every 300 youth has an undetected heart condition that puts them at risk. For schools that have AEDs, the survival rate for the children from sudden cardiac arrest is seven times higher”.
Also present at the event was Matthew Mangine Sr., who lost his 16-year-old son, Matthew Jr. to a cardiac arrest during football practice.
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Hamlin wants to prevent young athletes from suffering the same pain that he and Matthew Jr. had to undergo. His recent commitment to raising awareness around AEDs and CPR has struck a chord with many relevant lawmakers in the country and hopefully, his dreams will be a reality.