Damar Hamlin Returns!

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin was at practice today for the first time since going into cardiac arrest on the field during a game last season, in an event that no NFL fan has forgotten.  After the practice today, Hamlin remarked that he’s gone through a “roller coaster of emotions.”

He said his first day in pads was tough, and he owned up to having some fear about it, but he also stated that he believes he has a higher purpose now; of using the platform of being a notable NFL player to spread awareness of the importance of learning CPR and the importance of having defibrillators available at all sporting events.

  “In football, you can’t hit that field with no hesitation,” Hamlin said.  “you’re putting yourself in more danger by doing that.  I made the choice to play, but I’m processing a thousand emotions.  I’m not afraid to say that it crosses my mind of being a little scared here and there.  But like I say, my strength is rooted in my faith, and my faith is stronger than any fear.  That’s what I want to preach up here, and that’s the message I want to spread on the to the world.  As long as your faith is stronger than your fear, you can get through anything.  So that’s what I’m living by right now…” 

Hamlin also said he’s incredibly grateful to be back on the field.

“I’m just thankful.  I’m just blessed to be able to do what I wanted to do as a kid.”