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Reflections on Football and a Heartbeat
by Elaine Gilmartin
Today, Buffalo Bills’ safety, Damar Hamlin, was released from the hospital after suffering cardiac arrest on January 2nd. The outpouring of support and concern was incredible and was likely very needed by his family standing vigil during those harrowing first nights.
I love sports and as a New Yorker I eagerly anticipated the Buffalo Bills match up against the Cincinnati Bengals that Monday night. Watching in real time, it was jarring to see Damar collapse to the ground after a hit. His teammates looked on in abject horror, medical staff rushed to the field to tend to him, a flurry of activity as desperate efforts were made to establish a heartbeat until an ambulance spirited him away.
I have to admit as I watched this unfolding, fervently hoping Damar would be okay, I had to wonder how one could not do everything possible in such a dire situation.
No one said, well, you know, Damar chose to play football, he knew the risks, let’s see if he pulls through on his own.
No medical staff hesitated, fearful of being sued, of losing a medical license, or worse, jailed.
No lawyer had to be consulted to see if it was illegal to stop a scheduled game.
