A Buffalo Bills player went into cardiac arrest during Monday night’s NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Tuesday, Hamlin’s family released a statement thanking fans for their support and asking that they keep him in their prayers.
After witnessing the NFL safety collapse on national television, fans seem compelled to help or show support in any way they can. Fans in Buffalo immediately headed to the hospital, where Hamlin was rushed after Monday night’s incident. There they stood outside praying and lighting candles waiting with family and fellow teammates for an update.
Another form of support is one Gofundme says is an unusual situation for its platform. Within hours of being rushed to the hospital, a Gofundme Hamlin started for a toy drive in 2020 has suddenly started to see growth again. The fundraiser has now collected over $4 million.
Here is the verified GoFundMe Demar Hamlin started in December to help kids have a magical Christmas.
Following his injury on the field tonight, fans across the country are showing their support for him and his family by donating to his fundraiser 💚https://t.co/wcubpBpdd1
— GoFundMe (@gofundme) January 3, 2023
Damar Hamlin started the toy drive in 2020 in his hometown of McKees, Rocks, Philadelphia. He wrote the message explaining as he started his NFL career, he would never forget where he came from. He vowed to use his platform to impact the community that raised him. At the time, his goal was only $2500. Now three years later, he has surpassed that goal. The family has since updated the donation page’s message, thanking everyone for their support. The money will go to several of Hamlin’s community initiatives. A family spokesperson is warning that the Chasing M’s Foundation Toy Drive is the only legitimate Gofundme run by the family. Anything else is a scam.
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