Letter to Damar
Dear Damar,
Such great news today. Doctors say you’re awake. Still critical, but showing remarkable improvement. Stay the course.
You’re a fighter.
Damar, While you were fighting for your life, we caught a big glimpse of our own humanity.
When you collapsed on the field, America appeared to stand up and came together for you.
After watching in horror while professionals worked to bring you back to life, things were in slow motion. Time stopped. We were scared for you.
The teams surrounding you in a protective gesture as many hit their knees, tears falling freely, arms linked. Millions around the Country collectively held their breath. No thumbs up or reassurances as we waited to hear how you were.
Damar, while you were fighting for your life, humanity revealed itself in Bills blue. Everywhere. Stadiums, social media, Niagara Falls. Random billboards.
All coming together. Praying.
The Country lit up in support of you.
Damar, while you were fighting for your life, your beloved charity; Toy Drive, received funds well into the millions and still counting.
Helping the kids in your name made us feel less helpless. More connected to you. So empowering.
Damar, While you were fighting for your life, humanity came into full view as we haven’t seen it in awhile. Our differences disappeared as we came came together with a common thought.
Pray for Damar.
We were reminded of what’s important.
Life is precious and can’t be taken for granted. Priorities. People showed they valued life above all else. No sides. No score. Life won.
When we stand together all things are possible.
Like so many I love football. Once you went down that night the game didn’t matter. You did. Your health. Your life.
Damar, you are awake and squeezing hands.
So many across the Country are breathing a sigh of relief and thanking God for answered prayers. Those prayers continue for your ongoing journey towards recovery.
We must not lose sight of what we saw and felt these last days waiting for you to come back to us.
To your family. I wish it hadn’t taken something so traumatic as you nearly losing your life in front of us to realize how much better we are together. These last days will have a lasting impact.
Damar, while you were fighting for your life, America was unified. We felt the care and compassion one feels when humanity is revealed and fully embraced.
When you woke up you wanted to know who won? They told you that you did.
You won your life.
We won too. By our shared humanity. Our common focus of thoughts and prayers for you. The ongoing hope for restoration of your life and health. The shared experience of caring and expressing compassion.
That priorities thing? The humanity we’ve experienced these last days were summed up in that short but profound response.
You. Won. Your. Life.
Sweeter words were never spoken.
God’s blessings for continued recovery!
Tammy
An unedited excerpt from “Humane Way to Mental Health “