Damar Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation Flourishes, Making a Difference in Pittsburgh

34

Damar Hamlin always had faith in the potential of the Chasing M’s Foundation. However, he never expected its rapid growth and impact to unfold so quickly. The 25-year-old Buffalo Bills safety is grateful for the overwhelming response, even though he never envisioned becoming a symbol of CPR awareness and an inspiration to millions when he founded the foundation during his time at the University of Pittsburgh.

Hamlin acknowledges the countless blessings that have followed his near-death experience in Cincinnati in January. The heightened interest in his foundation stands out among them. Chasing M’s has experienced a significant rise in prominence over the past six months, parallel to Hamlin’s recovery. Millions of dollars have been donated, and unforeseen opportunities are emerging. Hamlin is determined not to squander this stroke of good fortune.

Every day, Hamlin wakes up with a purpose to positively impact the world. That is his driving force, regardless of any other factors, he shared with The Big Big News. Events and programs that were once distant aspirations are now within reach. Hamlin is excited to host his inaugural football camp for children aged 5-12 at the historic Cupples Stadium in Pittsburgh’s Southside neighborhood on July 7.

On July 9, designated as “Damar Hamlin Day” in his hometown, Chasing M’s will provide free CPR training for hundreds at PNC Park, the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates. This event is part of the ongoing “CPR Tour,” initiated by Hamlin in Buffalo, aiming to express gratitude to the first responders who used CPR to save his life during the Bengals game.

Hamlin’s goal is to empower individuals to become lifesavers, transforming bystanders into superheroes. By equipping more people with the knowledge and skills to save lives, Hamlin aims to create a community where everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Additionally, Chasing M’s will donate defibrillators to youth sports organizations and support an all-star high school football game featuring top players from the Pittsburgh area. Hamlin’s involvement has generated significant excitement for the game, as he understands the profound impact it can have on a recruit’s future. It provides an opportunity for young talents from Pittsburgh, the WPIAL District, and the City League to showcase their skills and gain recognition.

When asked about his vision for Chasing M’s, Hamlin doesn’t hesitate. Inspired by his father’s work in the McKee’s Rocks area, he envisions recreational centers and a wide range of athletic and academic programs. The foundation’s goals continue to expand each day, with an increasing potential to touch lives far and wide.

Hamlin emphasizes the importance of staying present while contemplating the future. Although he feels “great” and has returned to practice with the Bills, his immediate focus lies in organizing a weekend dedicated to giving back. He hopes this event will become an annual tradition in Pittsburgh and potentially extend to other locations.

While there is still much to process regarding his own experience, Hamlin remains grounded. His newfound fame, which transcends sports, allows him to extend Chasing M’s reach and positively impact more lives and communities.

Hamlin recognizes that his journey to recognition has been unconventional, but he remains committed to fulfilling his mission. Together with his team, he is dedicated to making a lasting difference, both now and for the next 30 years.

---

AP sports: For more sports news, visit https://bigbignews.net/sports or follow on Twitter at https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CPR awareness

More about CPR awareness

• The Big Big News: https://bigbignews.net/sports
• AP sports: https://twitter.com/AP_Sports