IN PHOTOS: Damar Hamlin poses in front of iconic mural gone viral since Bills player's cardiac arrest
Damar Hamlin was nearly one of the most tragic events ever witnessed on an athletic field. Instead, he's become one of the most inspiring stories of all time and perhaps a catalyst for the Buffalo Bills success.
After the second-year player's stunning cardiac arrest in Week 17, the world, not just the NFL world, rallied around him. They offered support, both emotionally and monetarily, as well as making his story known everywhere.
That includes a now-iconic mural painted on a wall of the safety. It features his signature pose, the heart symbol with his hands.
Now that he's out of the hospital and healthy enough to make public appearances, he took a photo in front of the mural, showcasing how iconic it is and how far he's come.
It was not long ago that Hamlin was being transported to the hospital after receiving CPR for several minutes. It was also not that long ago that the safety was in the hospital fighting for his life.
To see him healthy and going around is an excellent sight. To see him in front of the image of his mural is even more inspiring.
What's next for Damar Hamlin?
Given the timing and the nature of his injury, Damar Hamlin will not be on the field to help the Buffalo Bills in their pursuit of a Super Bowl- their first title and first appearance in the big game since 1993.
He has begun his rehab and has been discharged from the hospital. Jamie Nadler, a doctor who was with Hamlin in the hospital, said he could resume his rehab at home and with the organization:
"We are confident that Damar can be safely discharged to continue his rehabilitation at home and with the Bills."
It's a miracle that Hamlin was able to get off the field and into a hospital at all that fateful Monday evening, which ended up being a cancelled game for the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals.
It's also a miracle he's alive and well today. He may not be able to play for the Bills any time soon, but it's fantastic news that he can go out in public just a few weeks later.