Glad I missed it
Usually I wouldn’t be happy about missing a Monday Night Football game. Especially this one as I’ve become a closet Bills fan this season. It’s hard NOT to like Josh Allen. The guy has all the talent in the world, he’s a true leader and he’s one of those guys you just don’t hear bad things about. Granted, I’m on the west coast and don’t get a lot of Bills news, but he doesn’t seem to be one of those ego centric athletes that seem to mostly exist in California.
Anyway, during the game, and in the first quarter Damar Hamlin took a hit to the chest by Tee Higgins. Everything was clean, and it looked like a normal hit, however the hit put Hamlin into cardiac arrest. I obviously didn’t see the hit live as I was on a plane, and to be honest I’m not sure I really want to see it, reading about it is tough enough.
I’m not a doctor nor do I play one on the internet, but I do have some experience with being an EMT / First Responder. From what I’ve read, the medical crew administered CPR on the field. That had to be a horrifying experience for anyone on the field and especially the young fans. What’s concerning is how long they reportedly did work on him. If the reports are true and they were giving CPR for 16 mins, I sure hope this young man's physical fitness kicks in and he’s able to recover. That’s an awful long time to get someone’s heart to start beating again.
The NFL did the right thing in my mind and stopped the game. I don’t think anyone on either side of the ball could have put it back together enough to be at the competitive level this game calls for. I believe that it’s a game that matters in terms of playoff positioning and division titles. It’s unclear at this time whether or not the game will be replayed. I’m not sure it even really matters, as the only thing that matters at the moment is Hamlins health. Being 24 yrs old, and a professional athlete, I hope that combination allows him to have a FULL recovery.
Such sad news to wake up to today, yet I remain optimistic that Damar Hamlin will recover. As much as the NFL tries to protect its players, it’s still very clear how dangerous this sport can be. Whether this is just a freak accident or if there is something else going on, it reminds us that winning and losing aren’t the only aspects of the sport that we tune in for. The human element is still very much a part of why we enjoy the competition so much. It was great to see so many players, fans and non-fans send prayers to Hamlin and his family. It’s a reminder that life is fragile and there are surprises around every corner.