The Power of Three: Alden Unites for Damar Hamlin

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At 9 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 6, the Alden Intermediate School gym flooded with red, white, blue, and Buffalo spirit.

All students, teachers, and staff worked together to form an enormous number three across the floor in honor of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Hamlin suffered a cardiac attack after making a tackle during the Bills’ Monday night game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He was given CPR on the field for more than 10 minutes and was rushed to the hospital, where he was placed on oxygen and remained in critical condition for several days.

The entire city of Buffalo as well as NFL fans nationwide have rallied together, bringing Hamlin and his family overwhelming love and support during this hard time. Teammates, coaches, and opponents stopped at the hospital after the game and flowers, signs, and cards are everywhere. Supporters have already raised over $7 million for Hamlin’s community toy drive page and the entire country is praying for a fast and complete recovery.

I went behind the scenes at the intermediate school and ask students and staff how it feels to be a part of this incredible tribute.

When asked what they would say if given the chance to speak to Damar Hamlin, one student replied, “You won your life, basically.”

Although that Monday night football game was never finished, someone still took a win that night. And that person truly is Damar Hamlin.