Buffalo Bills Training Staff Receives The Pat Tillman Award for Service at ESPYS 2023, from Damar Hamlin

In a heartfelt and emotional moment at the 2023 ESPYS, Damar Hamlin, a 25-year-old safety for the Buffalo Bills, presented the Pat Tillman Award for Service to the Bills training staff who saved his life earlier this year. The audience at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles erupted in applause as Hamlin wiped away tears and introduced the team of professionals responsible for his recovery.

It was a fateful day on January 2nd when Hamlin went into cardiac arrest on the field after making a tackle during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Shocked fans watched as medical personnel raced onto the field and swiftly attended to Hamlin, ultimately contributing to his steps towards recovery. The swiftness and efficiency of their response were widely commended and attributed to the positive outcome.

Nathan Breske, the head athletic trainer for the Bills, stood beside Hamlin on stage to accept the award on behalf of the team. He expressed gratitude for the “massive army of specialists” who played a role in Hamlin’s survival, including the various medical staff members, equipment managers, and mental health clinicians present that night. Breske also acknowledged Hamlin himself, thanking him for staying alive through the ordeal.

Hamlin’s journey to recovery has been a remarkable one, as he was fully cleared to resume football activities just months after the incident. His hospital stay involved being sedated and on a ventilator for days, making his recovery all the more inspiring.

Breske took the opportunity to thank the Bills and Bengals organizations, the coaches, and the players for their support and guidance in navigating the challenges they faced as a team that night and in the days that followed. He emphasized the importance of service and how it is ingrained in their profession, expressing pride in the work they do.

The emotional moment on stage showcased the profound bond that exists between athletes and their support staff. It serves as a reminder of the team effort that goes into ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes, both on and off the field. The Pat Tillman Award for Service honors individuals who embody Tillman’s legacy of selflessness and dedication, and the Buffalo Bills training staff is undoubtedly deserving of this recognition.

Credits : ESPN, ABC, NBC