More than $7 million has been donated to Damar Hamlin’s charity as the Buffalo Bills safety made strides following a heart arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
As donations flooded in from all corners of the sports world on Wednesday, the Chasing M’s Foundation Toy Drive GoFundMe provided an update.
Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, was one among those who gave. He contributed $25,003 to the charity event.
“This fundraiser was initially established to support a toy drive for Damar’s community, sponsored by the Chasing M’s Foundation. However, it has received renewed support in light of Damar’s current battle and we can’t thank all of you enough. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us,” the update read.
“As representatives of Damar, the team at Jaster Athletes posted the fundraiser updates and will work with the Hamlin family, The Chasing M’s Foundation, and the GoFundMe team to ensure the safe delivery of funds.
“Damar created The Chasing M’s Foundation to use as a vehicle to bring lasting impact to his community. The foundation supports toy drives, back-to-school drives, kids camps, and more. We’re hopeful about Damar’s future involvement in disbursing the incredibly generous contributions.”
On Thursday, the Bills provided an encouraging update on Hamlin’s health.
“Per the physicians caring for Damar Hamlin at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Damar has shown remarkable improvement of the past 24 hours,” the team said. “While still critically ill, he has demonstrated that he appears to be neurologically intact. His lungs continue to heal and he is making steady progress.
“We are grateful for the love and support we have received.”
Hamlin’s teammate Kaiir Elam added, “Our boy is doing better, awake and showing more signs of improvement. Thank you God. Keep the prayers coming please. All love 3!”
