The family of Damar Hamlin released a statement of gratitude Tuesday as the Buffalo Bills safety remains in critical condition at a Cincinnati hospital.
“On behalf of our family, we want to express our sincere gratitude for the love and support shown to Damar during this challenging time. We are deeply moved by the prayers, kinds words and donations from fans around the country,” the statement read.
The 24-year-old safety went into cardiac arrest on the field after tackling Bengals’ WR Tee Higgins during the first quarter of Monday Night Football in Cincinnati.
Hamlin received CPR for approximately nine minutes on the field and had his heartbeat restored before being taken to UC Medical Center, the Bills released in an overnight statement.
“We also wanted to acknowledge the dedicated first responders and healthcare professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who have provided exceptional care to Damar. We feel so blessed to be part of the Buffalo Bills organization and to have their support. We also want to thank Coach [Zac] Taylor and the Bengals for everything they’ve done.
“Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us. Please keep Damar in your prayers. We will release updates as soon as we have them.”
It is a scene that nobody will forget with players and coaches in tears and an entire stadium of fans dead silent watching everything unfold in front of them. The game between the Bills and Bengals was postponed with 5:58 remaining in the first quarter.
Hamlin went down at 8:55 p.m. The game was suspended at 9:18 p.m. The ambulance left the stadium at approximately 9:25 p.m. and the game was officially postponed at 10:01 p.m.
The Bengals released a statement of their own via their team Twitter account on Tuesday morning.
“First and foremost, the Bengals continue to send thoughts and prayers to Damar Hamlin and his family. Our hearts are with everyone during this unprecedented time — what we can do is support one another.
“Last night was supposed to be a great night for the NFL and a great showcase for our hometown. Instead, the human side of our sport became paramount … and in that moment, humanity and love rose to the forefront.
“As medical personnel undertook extraordinary measures, both teams demonstrated respect and compassion while fans in the stadium and people around the country bolstered the support for Damar and love for each other. The Bengals are thankful for the love and compassion shown by all. Praying for Damar.”
After the game was postponed most of the Bills flew back to Buffalo on Monday night, however, some members of the team decided to stay back in Cincinnati and be near their teammate. Bills’ All-Pro wide receiver Stefon Diggs was seen on ESPN walking into UC Medical Center after the game on Monday night.
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