Damar Hamlin has made his first public statement since suffering a cardiac arrest

Doctors said on Saturday that Hamlin could breathe on his own but was still in critical condition. They described Hamlin’s neurological function as “excellent”…

Damar Hamlin was able to breathe on his own but remains in a critical condition

Damar Hamlin

After being in a critical condition in the hospital for several days, Hamlin began to communicate by writing and then gradually began to speak.

And now, the NFL player has taken to social media to express his gratitude to all of the fans and NFL players who have wished him well.

He wrote on Twitter: “Putting love into the world comes back 3xs as much… thankful for everyone who has reached out and prayed.

“This will make me stronger on the road to recovery, keep praying for me!”

On Saturday (7 January), the Bills star posted a longer message to his Instagram account.

  • Related: Bills Issue Statement Regarding Damar Hamlin’s Condition Following Football Field Collapse

He stated: “When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much.. 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!”

Doctors at the University of Cincinnati hospital said on Saturday that Hamlin could breathe on his own but was still in critical condition. They described Hamlin’s neurological function as “excellent,” which came just 24 hours after the NFL player was taken off a ventilator and spoke briefly.

Since Hamlin’s illness, there has been unwavering support for him and the game’s first responders.

The Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs both wore ‘Love for Damar 3’ t-shirts during their warm-ups yesterday to show their support for Hamlin.

The Steelers NFL team honored the player by donating toys, books, and teaching materials to a children’s daycare center that Hamlin supports.

Meanwhile, the Bills intend to pay their respects during Sunday’s (8 January) game against the New England Patriots.