NFL analyst reveals hero who gave Damar Hamlin critical CPR, paving the way to Wednesday awakening
When Damar Hamlin collapsed on Monday Night Football, fans, pundits, players, and commentators were left stunned. In nearly unprecedented fashion, the game was postponed in the middle of the first quarter.
When things were at an all-time low, one person stepped up to deliver potentially life-saving CPR for the Buffalo Bills safety.
Until now, not many knew the name of the person who stepped up, but NFL analyst Albert Breer has now revealed who it was. Bills assistant athletic trainer Danny Kellington was described as "absolutely vital" and "a huge difference maker."
Breer recently tweeted:
"One hero who should be recognized here: Last night, I was told the work of Bills assistant athletic trainer Denny Kellington in administering CPR to Damar Hamlin on Monday was absolutely vital. The speed and skill with which he and others reacted = A huge difference-maker."
One hero who should be recognized here: Last night, I was told the work of Bills assistant athletic trainer Denny Kellington in administering CPR to Damar Hamlin on Monday was absolutely vital.
The speed and skill with which he and others reacted = A huge difference-maker.
Thanks to Kellington, Hamlin survived until he was able to be put in an ambulance en route to a local hospital, where he's spent the last few days in critical condition. According to Ian Rapoport, the safety opened his eyes on Wednesday night and is responsive.
#Bills S Damar Hamlin opened his eyes last night and is responsive. Truly incredible. One thing that's very clear from speaking to those close to him: They are endlessly appreciative of the medical care given to Hamlin on the field immediately, then over the last 72 hours.
NFL navigates choppy waters in wake of Damar Hamlin's collapse
The Cincinnati Bengals-Buffalo Bills matchup came to a screeching halt after Damar Hamlin's collapse on the field. The game was initially delayed momentarily, but moments became an hour and soon, it was postponed for the night.
Since then, no plans have been announced for the game, as the league was clear about prioritizing Hamlin's health and the players' mental wellbeing over the contest.
The effect of what everyone agrees to be the right action taken by the league leaves them in a bind. The game between the Bengals and Bills was critical to learning who gets the top seed in the AFC. Most agree that the clash is crucial in crowning a Super Bowl champion.
Pundits and fans have begun to think of solutions, but seemingly every solution harms the legitimacy of the playoffs and the season. As such, many expect the league to announce a plan that puts at least some teams at a disadvantage with respect to entering the playoffs.
Will the NFL find a solution that everyone is missing?