Just over a month after suffering an absolutely horrifying injury that sent him into sudden cardiac arrest and left him in desperate need of life-saving CPR on the field during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Damar Hamlin was recognized with the NFLPA’s Alan Page Community Award after an absolutely miraculous recovery, and he had a bold message about his faith during his acceptance speech.
Damar Hamlin briefly addressed the crowd on Thursday night, boldly addressing God’s purpose for his life.
“Every day I’m amazed that my experiences could encourage so many others across the country and even across the world — encourage to pray, encourage to spread love and encourage to keep fighting no matter the circumstances,” Hamlin said in a short speech on Thursday night, according to Pro Football Talk. “Sudden cardiac arrest is something I never would have chosen to be a part of my story, but that’s because our own visions are too small even when we think we see the whole picture. My vision was about playing in the NFL and being the best player I could be, but God’s plan was to have a purpose greater than any game in this world.”
Hamlin did not address his football future – even though it seems likely he’ll return to the field at some point – but he is confident in God’s purpose for his life.
“My entire life, I felt like God was using me to give others hope and now with a new set of circumstances, I can say he’s doing what he’s always done,” Hamlin said. “I have a long journey ahead, a journey full of unknowns and a journey full of milestones, but it’s a lot easier to face your fears when you know your purpose.”
