A week after his sudden collapse on the field, NFL star Damar Hamlin has shared his first Instagram post.
On January 2, Buffalo Bills' safety Hamlin was involved in a medical emergency on the field during their game against the Bengals in Cincinnati, Ohio.
As per the New York Post, the 24-year-old collapsed on the field in the first quarter after making a tackle on Bengals receiver Tee Higgins. He initially got up after the hit and appeared disoriented before falling to the ground on his back.
He was immediately transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he has been receiving treatment for the past few days.
Updates have revealed that Hamlin has now been breathing on his own since the ventilation tubes were removed.
In a statement on Friday, the Bills revealed that Hamlin "continues to progress remarkably in his recovery," also adding that "his neurologic function remains intact and he has been able to talk to his family and care team."
On the same day, speaking during a press conference, Dr. Tim Pritts said: "We would like to share that there has been substantial improvement in his condition over the past 24 hours.
"We had significant concern about him after the injury and after the event on the field and he is making substantial progress. As of this morning, he is beginning to awaken and it appears that his neurological condition and function is intact."
And it seems as though Hamlin is now doing well enough to make an appearance on social media again.
The 24-year-old posted his first update since his terrifying ordeal, thanking everyone for their love and support during this difficult period in his life.
He posted on his Instagram story revealing he was FaceTiming friends, adding: "Back working, back smiling!!!"
Taking to Instagram, Hamlin also published a series of photos; two of him wearing his team's uniform, one of him dressed casually walking down the street and the last of a quote doctors said when he came around on Wednesday.
Alongside the snapshots, he also wrote: "When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much... The Love has been overwhelming, but I’m thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out. We brung the world back together behind this. If you know me you know this only gone make me stronger. On a long road keep praying for me! #3strong."
Kind messages have been pouring in under the comment section, with many other NFL players praising God for saving Hamlin's life.
"I ain’t scared to say my God is real..." This user wrote.
"God is the greatest let’s go 3," another added.
"You have inspired us all!! Definition of a champion!" A third said.
The official NFL and Buffalo Bills accounts also left heart emojis under the post to show their unwavering support for the young star.
Even though there's still a long way to go before Hamlin is back out on the field, we're happy to see he's making incredible progress with his recovery!