Sports are often celebrated for their ability to uplift and inspire, but the story of Buffalo Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin is one that truly embodies the power of perseverance and determination. After a near-fatal accident, Hamlin not only overcame incredible physical and mental challenges, but he also became an advocate for change and a source of inspiration for countless others. President Joe Biden also praised Hamlin for his resilience and commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
This week, Damar Hamlin, safety for the Buffalo Bills, had the privilege of meeting with President Joe Biden during his tour of Washington.
Biden praised Hamlin’s courage, and resilience and commended him for his efforts to turn recovery into action, making the country a better place.
“Damar Hamlin’s courage, resilience, and spirit inspired the American people. And what’s more: he turned recovery into action — and our country is better for it. It was my honor to have him and his family here today.”
Damar Hamlin’s courage, resilience, and spirit inspired the American people.
And what's more: he turned recovery into action – and our country is better for it.
It was my honor to have him and his family here today. pic.twitter.com/xju70wnAzl
— President Biden (@POTUS) March 30, 2023
Hamlin expressed his pleasure and gratitude in a tweet, thanking Biden for his time and valuing their conversation.
It was a pleasure & an honor meeting you today. I know your time is precious and I wouldn’t waste a second of it! Our conversations were valuable.. 🫶🏾 #UncleJoe https://t.co/Oy7KR3Lk9E
— 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐢𝐧 (@HamlinIsland) March 30, 2023
The meeting between the two included discussions about Hamlin’s contributions towards bringing people together and making life-saving technologies more widely available.
Damar Hamlin Advocacy for Access to AEDs
Hamlin’s dedication to promoting the bipartisan legislation Access to AEDs, which aims to increase the availability of automated external defibrillators on school campuses, was also highlighted during his visit to Washington.
Moreover, the NFL announced the launch of the Smart Heart Sports Coalition, and Hamlin played an active role in advocating for policies that prevent fatal outcomes from sudden cardiac arrest among high school athletes. The coalition aims to pass legislation in all 50 states and implement policies within the next three years, and they have already sent letters to the governors of 43 states in need of additional policies.
Damar Hamlin’s journey is a reminder that no obstacle is too great to overcome, and that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope. His story of courage, resilience, and inspiration serves as a powerful example for us all, and we can all learn from his example to never give up and always strive to make a positive impact on the world. As President Biden said, “Damar Hamlin turned recovery into action — and our country is better for it.”
