Hamlin's charity toy drive receives over $7M in donations
Fans have raised more than $7 million for Buffalo Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin's charity toy drive after he suffered a cardiac arrest during Monday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The 24-year-old Hamlin's initial goal for the fundraiser, which he started in 2020, was to raise $2,500. The foundation had brought in just over $2,900 prior to Hamlin's collapse. More than 220,000 people have donated to the charity.
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady, and Denver Broncos signal-caller Russell Wilson are among the top donors.
"As I embark on my journey to the NFL, I will never forget where I come from and I am committed to using my platform to positively impact the community that raised me," wrote Hamlin on the GoFundMe page.
"I created The Chasing M's Foundation as a vehicle that will allow me to deliver that impact, and the first program is the 2020 Community Toy Drive. This campaign gives you the opportunity to contribute to our first initiative and positively impact children who have been hardest hit by the pandemic."
Hamlin is in critical condition after his heartbeat was restored on the field. He is currently sedated while undergoing additional testing at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
The defensive back was drafted in the sixth round in 2021 following a standout career at Pittsburgh.
After playing sparingly as a rookie, Hamlin took on a key role this season following Micah Hyde's season-ending neck injury, starting 13 games and appearing in two more.