The 2023 ESPY Awards was a night filled with inspiring stories of athletic triumph and human resilience. Among the deeply moving moments was Damar Hamlin’s emotional tribute to the Buffalo Bills’ training staff. Through tears and heartfelt gratitude, Hamlin honored them with the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service.
In January, Hamlin experienced a life-threatening event when he went into cardiac arrest during a game, suffering from commotio cordis—a rare condition where a blow to the chest disrupts the heart’s rhythm. In those critical moments, the Bills’ training staff, alongside the Bengals and other individuals present, swiftly acted to stabilize Hamlin until medical professionals could take over. Their efforts proved crucial in ensuring Hamlin’s survival.
Thanks to the quick thinking and coordination of the training staff, Hamlin avoided any permanent damage that could have resulted in severe neurological impairments or even death. Their expertise and prompt actions demonstrate the indispensable role of well-trained medical professionals in moments of crisis.
Speaking at the ESPYS, Bills’ head athletic trainer Nate Breske emphasized the importance of CPR and AED training. He urged individuals to acquire certification and support the availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) in underserved communities. Breske also stressed the need for more athletic trainers in youth sports, safeguarding young athletes’ well-being.
Breske’s impassioned plea resonates with all of us. The ability to administer CPR and operate an AED can make a significant difference in saving lives. CPR and AED training classes are readily available across the country, with the Red Cross website offering information about nearby locations. It is our collective responsibility to ensure more individuals are equipped with these life-saving skills.
As we reflect on the heartfelt tribute at the ESPY Awards, let us be inspired to take action. Sign up for a CPR and AED training course this summer, empowering ourselves with the knowledge to intervene during critical moments. By doing so, we honor the efforts of those who have dedicated their lives to service and remind ourselves of the profound impact one small act can have in saving a life. Together, let’s build a society where CPR and AED skills are widely accessible, ensuring that no one is left helpless during life-threatening situations.
The Business Press 