07 January 2023 , 18:06
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NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has sent a letter to fans after more positive updates surrounding Damar Hamlin's progress have to come light.
The 24-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest on the field after he made a hit during Monday's nights game between the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals.
Hamlin collapsed and had to be revived on the field with CPR and a defibrillator administered before further treatment was given to him at the University of Cincinnati Health Hospital. Thankfully, it was announced that on Thursday, over 48 hours after the incident had happened, that Hamlin had woken with his neurological function intact.
In more positive news again the following day, the Bills revealed the physicians confirmed Hamlin’s breathing tube had been removed and the safety had reportedly spoken to his family, his care team and Bills teammates. Hamlin would go on to FaceTime his teammates and was even said to have flexed to the cameras.
After the difficult few days, the commissioner penned a message to NFL fans. In a statement, Goodell wrote: "To our fans: Damar Hamlin's inspiring progress over the past few days has lifted the spirits of the entire NFL and football fans across the country.
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"While his recovery is just beginning, we thank the NFL medical personnel and the medical staffs from both teams whose emergency action quite likely saved his life. We are also grateful to the professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who tended to Damar and continue to oversee his care.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has penned an open letter to fans (Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)"Seeing the entire NFL family -- teams, players, coaches, and fans like you -- band together was yet another reminder that football is family: human, loving and resilient.
"This weekend, players and coaches from all 32 teams will wear 'Love for Damar 3' T-shirts during pregame warmups in a league-wide show of support for Damar.
"I'm deeply hopeful that with his continued progress, there is a good chance Damar himself will be watching his teammates. We are grateful for and humbled by all who played a role as he continues on his road to recovery. On behalf of the entire NFL, thank you. Roger Goodell."
The Bills will play their final game of the season this weekend, when they face division rival New England Patriots.
The Patriots will need to win to clinch a spot in the postseason. Whilst the Bills will be hoping to secure the first-seed and get that all important bye week from round one of the playoffs.