Damar Hamlin’s alarming health scare during a January 2023 Monday Night Football game has sparked significant legislative action aimed at enhancing heart health resources across the United States. The incident, which saw the Buffalo Bills player suffer a cardiac arrest on the field, has led to the introduction of the Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Research and Training in Schools Act, commonly referred to as the HEARTS Act.
The HEARTS Act: What it entails
On Dec. 10, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the HEARTS Act, which is now awaiting President Biden’s signature to become law. This bipartisan legislation aims to improve access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and expand CPR training in schools. The bill was developed in collaboration with New York Senator Chuck Schumer and was previously passed by the House of Representatives in September.
The HEARTS Act proposes the establishment of a grant program through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This program will provide funding to elementary and secondary schools for the purchase of AEDs, resources for CPR and AED training, and the development of cardiac emergency response plans. These measures are crucial for ensuring that schools are equipped to handle cardiac emergencies effectively.
Hamlin’s personal journey and advocacy
Hamlin’s own experience with cardiac arrest has profoundly influenced his advocacy for heart health. After collapsing on the field during a game in Cincinnati, he was saved thanks to the prompt administration of CPR and the use of an AED. Following a nine-day hospital stay, Hamlin revealed that his cardiac arrest was caused by a rare condition known as commotio cordis, which occurs when a blow to the chest disrupts the heart’s rhythm.
“Since experiencing cardiac arrest, I’ve been honored to work with partners who understand how important it is to provide CPR education and have access to AEDs to save lives,” Hamlin stated at a recent event with Senator Schumer. He emphasized the need for preparedness, noting that cardiac arrest can happen unexpectedly and that everyone should be equipped with the knowledge and tools to respond.
The importance of CPR and AED training
Research underscores the critical role that CPR and AED training play in saving lives. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that children who experience cardiac arrest in schools equipped with AEDs are seven times more likely to survive compared to those in schools without such devices. This statistic highlights the necessity of implementing the HEARTS Act to ensure that schools are prepared for emergencies.
In addition to his legislative efforts, Hamlin has dedicated much of his time to his foundation, Chasing M’s, and the American Heart Association. His initiatives focus on raising awareness about the importance of CPR training and the availability of AEDs in communities, particularly in schools where young athletes are at risk.
Support from the NFL and community
Both the Buffalo Bills and the NFL have expressed their support for the HEARTS Act, recognizing the importance of this legislation in promoting heart health awareness. Hamlin has voiced his commitment to ensuring that all children have access to the same level of care he received during his health crisis.
Hamlin’s journey from a life-threatening incident to becoming a champion for heart health resources exemplifies the power of advocacy and community support. The HEARTS Act represents a significant step toward ensuring that schools are equipped to handle cardiac emergencies, ultimately saving lives and empowering the next generation. As this legislation moves forward, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and education in the face of unexpected health crises.
