On January 2nd, the NFL was getting ready for what was set to be one of the best games of the year. Two top-seeded AFC juggernauts would clash between the Cincinnati Bengals and Buffalo Bills. Some people called this game of the year before kickoff. But, what people didn’t understand was that the game being played that night was “The Game Of Life”. Early in the first quarter, the Bengals were up seven to three. At 8:55 PM with just over five minutes left in the quarter, the view of sports would change forever.
In this play, Damar Hamlin collided with receiver Tee Higgins and made a normal tackle. Shortly after the play, Damar went into cardiac arrest and was administered CPR by his team trainer, Danny Kellington. His heartbeat was revived on the field and he then was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. He was in critical condition, and it was now about life or death. Damar Hamlin’s life was the primary focus of the sports world and beyond.
Everyone gravitated toward the news of this severe injury and the sport of football was put on the back burner. Through their interviews and press conferences, the players and coaches expressed so much love for Damar and his family. These players and coaches were real role models of emotional intelligence as they publicly shared their emotions in a raw and authentic way. Many of them were crying, holding each other, and praying.
The true brotherhood that developed among players was exhibited throughout this traumatic experience. It was so inspiring to witness these types of bonds that were unifying both teams and frankly the world. It is rare to see such unification and this unity is something we need right now. We also celebrate the heightened awareness of mental health as canceling the game might not have happened years ago. The NFL was aware of the impact this had on everyone and took the appropriate action for the player’s and coaches’ mental health and well-being and immediately arranged counseling sessions and shared mental health resources.
The outpouring of kindness and generosity was just stunning. 8.6 million dollars was raised for Damar’s charity, people were having food delivered to his medical providers and his family, his teammates went with him to the hospital, former teammates and friends flew in to be with him and the list of loving acts goes on and on.
The biggest celebration was in the last week of the NFL season! What took place was remarkable as each team honored Damar through pregame apparel, field designs, special moments to honor him, and prayers. They highlighted the number three across the nation on every single football field. Players and staff worked in synchronicity by wearing “Pray for Damar” t-shirts to honor him. Before each NFL game, teams came together at the midfield to have a moment of silence for him as well. It was beautiful to see the flawless behavior of everyone who took part in honoring Damar Hamlin, who is now on his way to recovery.
It was a surreal moment to witness Bill’s first game back on the field. If anyone had doubts about the Buffalo Bill’s resilience, those doubts quickly became roars from Orchard Park. On the opening kickoff of the final regular season game, Nyheim Hines returned the kickoff return back for a touchdown. Later in the game, he returned his second touchdown back for six. The magic was visible and once again the nation was unified in awe at the spectacular moment.
We will never forget that Damar’s first words when he woke up were, “Who won the game?” His physician, Dr. Timothy Pritts, quickly responded “You won the game of life”. Being supported by so much love and support with the whole world cheering him on – Damar indeed won the game of life. This tragedy has turned into triumph and Damar has brought out the best in people. What a great way to start off the New Year – Thank you Damar and the football community for showing us how to get through adversity through love.
