NFL player Damar Hamlin is expected to be discharged from the hospital in the next 48 hours, and his GoFundMe page has revealed how the $8.6m (£7m) donated will be spent.
The 24-year-old player’s heart had to be reworked twice after he died. suddenly fell to the ground and suffered a heart attack During a game against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 2.
He was said to be still in “critical condition” at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center last Thursday, but was transferred to a hospital in Buffalo on Monday.
The recovering Buffalo Bills star undergoes further testing before doctors believe she’s eligible for release.
Michael Hughes, senior vice president and chief executive officer of Kaleida Health, which operates the Buffalo General Medical Center where Hamlin was treated, told CNN that Hamlin was well enough to leave the facility within 48 hours.
Hamlin’s medical team said he would “potentially treat any pathology that may be found and plan for his recovery, discharge, and rehabilitation.”
The Buffalo Bills said in a statement that Hamlin was “in good spirits”, and head coach Sean McDermott said he saw him briefly on Tuesday.
“[Hamlin’s] not only is he very tired but he seems happy and contented to be back in Buffalo and in familiar territory for him,” said Mr. McDermott.
“What a blessing, the incredible progress he’s made, and the incredible attention he’s received both in Cincinnati and here now. So we’re so grateful for that. We’re so grateful for Damar to come back and rest here in Buffalo.”
Hamlin was also feeling well enough to release his own update yesterday – telling fans he’s “not at home yet”.
The football star is recovering quickly, communicating via text message from his ventilator – then breathing on his own and talking to his family, doctors and teammates.
She started walking on the weekend and eating a regular diet, according to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page founded by Hamlin to support youth through education and sport has raised $8.6 million after his heart attack, while his initial goal was just $2,500.
“Did we win?” He is said to have used some of the proceeds from the sale of new t-shirts emblazoned with With his heart-shaped hands to raise money for the Cincinnati medical facility that treated him.
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Hamlin collaborated with The Giving Back Fund, a nonprofit that helps athletes and celebrities run charities, to host “The Chasing M’s Foundation.” Chasing M’s is Hamlin’s clothing company.
GoFundMe representatives said the crowdfunding platform will soon roll over donations that have come in since its collapse.
Marketing rep Jordon Rooney said that Hamlin and his family were “stunned by the tremendous support they have shown as they recover.”
“They are incredibly grateful for the continued prayers and extreme concern displayed by people from all over the world.”