In a recent high-stakes game, Buffalo Bills’ running back Damien Harris was distressingly escorted from the field via ambulance, following a neck injury incurred during a home game against the New York Giants.
The Bills announced abruptly that Harris was ruled out for ongoing play, reassuring their fretful audience that despite his grisly injury, he retained mobility in both his arms and legs. As a prudential measure, Harris was rushed to a nearby hospital for a comprehensive assessment of his condition.
The otherwise robust athlete was struck with injury during his first carry of the second quarter, when he encountered Giants linebacker Bobby Okereke on a short run. The 26-year-old Harris lay motionless on the turf post-play, prompting immediate concern and a fervent call for medical assistance from both teams.
As a huddle of worried players and coaches formed around the injured Harris, an ambulance navigated its way onto the field. After securing him to a backboard and stretcher, he was transported to the hospital, offering a sign of reassurance through a valiant thumbs-up.
Among the anxious onlookers was the Bills’ backup safety, Damar Hamlin. Hamlin himself suffered a cardiac arrest on the Cincinnati Bengals’ field earlier this year, which led to the game’s abrupt cancellation. He collapsed post-tackle, after receiving a blunt hit to his chest, causing his pulse to drop dramatically. After enduring a vigorous cardio-resuscitation and defibrillation procedure on-field, Hamlin spent an extended period in a Cincinnati hospital, aided by a ventilator for several days.
Medical officials later ascribed his heart failure to commotio cordis, a phenomenon triggered by acute chest trauma that disrupts the heart’s rhythm and provokes dangerous fibrillations. Following a prolonged period of recovery, Hamlin was permitted to resume his football endeavours in April. By August, he had fully resumed his active role, participating in preseason games.
Despite making the roster for the current season, Hamlin has only partaken in a single game. While he did not suit up for the Sunday night match, he was visibly present, and cameras caught glimpses of him, head bowed down in concern.
Despite the disconcerting events that unfolded, the Bills emerged victorious, besting the Giants 14-9. The team is now preparing for their upcoming face-off against the New England Patriots, set for Sunday, October 22.
