Damar Hamlin, 24-year-old safety for the Buffalo Bills, returned to Instagram Saturday after suffering a life-threatening tackle on Monday Night Football.
Hamlin shared pictures of himself in uniform and a quote from Dr. Timothy Pritts, which expressed the gratitude of doctors who said the player “won the game of life” after Hamlin awoke and asked who won the Bills-Bengals game.
Hamlin expressed his appreciation for fans’ “overwhelming” support and flashed a wide smile.
“When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much.. ??????,” the second-year NFL pro wrote in his caption. “The Love has been overwhelming, but I’m thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out. We brung the world back together behind this. If you know me you know this only gone make me stronger. On a long road keep praying for me! ??❤️3️⃣ #3strong.”
Bills quarterback Josh Allen showed his love for teammate Denny Hamlin by commenting with a red heart emoji and the number “3” in the comments section. Other teammates of Hamlin reciprocated the show of support.
Denny Hamlin made his first Instagram post since Christmas Day, when he was promoting his third annual toy drive. The initial goal for the drive was set at $2,500, however, due to an outpouring of support from fans, it has raised more than $8.1 million.
This post comes as Hamlin is on the mend, having recently had his breathing tube removed and making remarkable progress in his recovery.
On Friday, he also took the time to Facetime his teammates and tell them “Love you boys.”
“His neurologic function remains intact and he has been able to talk to his family and care team,” the team added.