Family members of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin are expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of support after an incident left him in critical condition.
In a statement on Tuesday, Hamlin’s family said, “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, kind words, and donations from fans around the country,” the statement continued.
It went on:
“We also want 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 a part of the Buffalo Bills organization and to have their support. We also want to thank Coach Taylor and the Bengals for everything they’ve done.”
Check out the statement below:
A statement from the family of #Bills S Damar Hamlin, via @jordonr: pic.twitter.com/VolSLMraUN
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2023
The statement comes after a Monday night game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Buffalo Bills was postponed after Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest and collapse on the field.
CBS Sports reports Bengals receiver Tee Higgins “caught a pass from Joe Burrow for 13 yards and appeared to have his helmet hit Hamlin in the chest.”
“Hamlin was initially able to get on his feet, but then fell to the ground and required medical attention. After he was given CPR, Hamlin was driven away in an ambulance, where he was reportedly accompanied by his family,” it added.
He was listed in “critical condition” on Monday night, and his family’s statement did not provide further updates on his condition.
Higgins tweeted after the incident, “My prayers and thoughts go out to [Hamlin and] the Hamlin Family. I’m praying that you pull through bro. Love.”
My prayers and thoughts go out to @HamlinIsland the Hamlin Family. I’m praying that you pull through bro. Love 🙏🏾💙
— Tee Higgins⁵ (@teehiggins5) January 3, 2023
In a statement, the National Football League on Monday said, “Our thoughts are with Damar and the Buffalo Bills. We will provide more information as it becomes available.”
“The NFL has been in constant communication with the NFL Players Association which is in agreement with postponing the game,” it added.