Damar Hamlin’s Emotional Speech at The NFL Honors Ceremony

The annual NFL Honors generally center on the year’s greatest football players. This year, however, the heroes were the first responders who saved Damar Hamlin’s life. The medical staff who responded quickly to resuscitate Hamlin after he experienced cardiac arrest on the field during a game in January were acknowledged during the Thursday night show.

Abbott Elementary actress Sheryl Lee Ralph introduced them on stage, followed by 24-year-old Hamlin, who received a standing ovation from the NFL players and celebs in the audience. Hamlin then went on to give an emotional speech of his experiences and also thanked everybody that helped save his life.

“The journey will continue.” ❤️💙

An incredible moment as @HamlinIsland takes the stage at #NFLHonors. pic.twitter.com/TgqTKSAVKS

— NFL (@NFL) February 10, 2023

“First I would like to just thank God for even being here,” he began. “Sudden cardiac arrest was nothing I would’ve ever chosen to be a part of my story. But that’s because sometimes, our own visions are too small. My vision was about playing in the NFL and being the best player I could be.

“But God’s plan was to have a purpose greater than any game in this world”. Hamlin continued: “I have a long journey ahead, a journey full of unknowns and a journey full of milestones. But it’s a lot easier to face your fears when you have a purpose.”

He then praised the first responders who had surrounded him on stage before bringing them all into a group hug. “I want to give a special thank you to everyone on this stage for everything they did for me,” Hamlin said. “And thank you to everyone around the world who prayed for me and hoped for me. The journey will continue.”