Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has announced a CPR challenge to help the public learn more about the CPR process.
On January 2, Hamlin collapsed during the first quarter of a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. NFL trainers rushed to Hamlin and performed CPR after he reportedly suffered from cardiac arrest on the field. Luckily, the trainers made it in time, and his heartbeat was restored due to the CPR.
Earlier this week, Hamlin released a video statement for the first time since the incident. During the video, Hamlin said the experience was a lot to handle mentally, physically, and emotionally, but that he continues to progress.
Hamlin is now teaming up with the American Heart Association to launch Damar Hamlin’s #3forHeart CPR Challenge. To announce the challenge, Hamlin released a video statement explaining the reason and steps on his Twitter account.
“Once again, I want to thank everybody for their love and support over these past few weeks,” said Hamlin in the video, per WFAA News. “As you know, CPR saved my life earlier this year on the field, and CPR could easily save your life or someone you love.”
The challenge has a total of three steps. The first step is to learn hands-only CPR by watching a short video on the American Heart Association website. The second step of the challenge is to donate to the association, or other lifesaving programs, on its website. Finally, the third step is to share the challenge with three friends and use the #3forHeart™ on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
“To kick things off, I’m challenging the G.O.A.T.S.: LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Michelle Obama,” said Hamlin, per WFAA News. “You’ve all been challenged. And, one more thing, make sure you share your videos on all socials and tag me and have your hearts up.”
Hamlin’s CPR challenge comes in the midst of a public health crisis concerning obesity. Over 40% of adults in the US are considered obese, and it has been suggested that obesity is associated with poor in-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes.
