Damar Hamlin makes first public statement since cardiac event

On Saturday, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin made his first public statements since suffering a cardiac emergency on "Monday Night Football" nearly a month ago. 

In a video posted to his Instagram, Hamlin thanked those within the NFL community and the world at large for their support. 

"What happened to me on 'Monday Night Football,' I feel, is the direct example of God using me as a vessel for me to share my love and my passion directly from my heart with the entire world," Hamlin said. "And now I'm able to give it back to kids and communities all across the world who need it most. And that's always been my dream. That's always been what I've stood for and will continue to stand for." 

Amid wild conspiracy theories alleging that he died on the field that night in Cincinnati and the NFL replaced him with a body double for recent appearances, Hamlin explained in his video why he waited so long to go public. 

"I think it was important for me to wait and speak publicly at the right time as it was just a lot to process within my own self," Hamlin said. "Mentally, physically, even spiritually, it's just been a lot to process. But I can't tell you how appreciative I am of all the love, all the support, and everything that's just been coming my way."

Hamlin, 24, went into cardiac arrest after a collision during the Bills' Jan. 2 contest against the Cincinnati Bengals. He spent nearly a week at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center before returning home to Buffalo's General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute. 

Following his discharge on Jan. 11, Hamlin visited the Bills' practice facility several times. On Jan. 22, Hamlin took in the Bills' divisional-round playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals from a stadium suite. 

Hamlin still has a "lengthy recovery" ahead. He reportedly requires oxygen and has his heart monitored regularly. However, seeing and hearing from Hamlin is a welcome sign and a positive one for his recovery.