Bills’ Damar Hamlin promotes access to AEDs and CPR programs during visit to Capitol Hill

Buffalo Bills security Damar Hamlin visited Capitol Hill Wednesday to support an important cause.

Hamlin’s life was saved by the quick intervention of medical staff and a portable defibrillator when he suffered cardiac arrest on the field during a Monday night football game in January.

Hamlin spoke at the Capitol in support of the Access to AEDs Act. The House of Representatives on Wednesday introduced legislation that would allow elementary and secondary schools to receive funding through grants to implement AED (automated external defibrillators) and CPR programs.

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“To me, these children represent why we are all here today. Growing up with football, I don’t remember ever thinking about CPR or knowing where there was an AED in my school or on the sports field,” Hamlin said.

Since collapsing on the field, Hamlin has launched the 3 For Heart campaign to raise awareness of AED and CPR.

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Hamlin also shared his gratitude for the Bills medical staff.

“For those of you who play sports, I would imagine you’ve had similar experiences. With my coaches on the field and my family in the stands, we didn’t plan what would happen if I or any of my teammates went into sudden cardiac arrest. On January 2nd everything changed for me and my whole family, especially my mother Nina and father Mario who are here with me today. Luckily the medical team with the Buffalo Bills was prepared and they saved my life,” Hamlin added.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, DN.Y., showed his support for Hamlin by wearing a custom No. 3 Bills jersey. The shirt included a special autographed message from Hamlin that read ‘Thank you for the love and support’.

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, left, salutes Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin at an event inaugurating the AED Access Act March 29, 2023 in Washington, DC (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Schumer praised Hamlin for using his platform to raise awareness.

“Damar Hamlin is the epitome of resilience, endurance and bravery. Following his cardiac arrest, the nation joined in a somber prayer and hope, uniting the entire country to support his miraculous recovery. Damar’s influence extends beyond the field, stretching thousands of miles across western New York. At a time when Damar could have retired to a quiet recovery, he is instead using his voice to turn his story into a life-saving mission for millions of children across the country.”

Buffalo Bills Safety Damar Hamlin tours the US Capitol before an event with lawmakers to introduce the Access to AEDs Act March 29, 2023 in Washington, DC (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Schumer promised to pass the Access to AEDs Act before 2024.

The NFL recently announced the formation of the Smart Heart Sports Coalition, calling in partnership with the MLB, NBA, MLS, NHL, NCAA, American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Korey Stringer Institute, National Athletic Trainers’ Association and Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation will require all US states to adopt contingency plans.

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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the “coalition of sports leagues and advocacy groups” will “launch a 50-state campaign to ensure all high schools have access to AEDs, coaches have CPR instruction, and emergency plans are in place to prepare for sudden heart disease.” respond arrest.”