Damar Hamlin able to speak to family, teammates after breathing tube removed
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin continues to make a remarkable recovery and is now able to speak to his family, doctors, and teammates after having his breathing tube removed on Thursday night.
Hamlin had been in critical condition in the ICU at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center since Monday night when he collapsed on the field due to a cardiac arrest during the Bills' game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
But on Thursday, we got the positive update that he was awake and able to communicate with doctors and family members through writing and hand squeezes. He even asked whether or not the Bills won their game.
He remained unable to speak, however, due to the breathing tube that had been inserted.
But with that tube removed, he is again able to begin speaking and even joined the team meeting via Facetime, according to the Bills.
That is no doubt a huge emotional lift to his Bills teammates who were understandably concerned and shaken by what took place on Monday night. Even Thursday's news seemed to bring a 180 swing in their emotions as they shifted from concern to smiles during practice.
Monday's game will not be concluded, setting into motion some potentially wild playoff scenarios.
Even with that, and no matter who actually starts, you can probably expect a very motivated Bills team on Sunday afternoon against the New England Patriots. The Bills could potentially still be playing for the No. 1 seed in the AFC, while the Patriots need a win to get in the playoffs.
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