Damar Hamlin's CPR World Record Attempt at NFL Draft

When cardiac arrest stopped Damar Hamlin's heart on live television in 2022, CPR saved his life. Now he's coming home to Pittsburgh to make sure 4,000 more people know how to return the favor.

The Buffalo Bills safety is partnering with the American Heart Association to set a Guinness World Record for the most people trained in hands-only CPR in one hour. The massive training session takes place April 25th at Acrisure Stadium during the NFL Draft Experience, running from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

The timing and location make this especially meaningful for Hamlin, who grew up in Pittsburgh. His near-death experience during a Monday Night Football game shocked millions of viewers and sparked a national conversation about cardiac emergency preparedness.

"As my experience with cardiac arrest has shown, CPR saves lives," Hamlin said. He's now a National Ambassador for the Nation of Lifesavers and runs the Chasing M's Foundation, which focuses on youth health and wellness.

The American Heart Association reports that CPR can double or even triple someone's chance of survival during cardiac arrest. Every second counts when the heart stops beating, and bystander intervention often determines whether someone lives or dies.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the urgency. "Every second matters when someone experiences cardiac arrest and knowing how to perform CPR can be the difference between life and death," she said.

The training will be led by AHA associates, Hamlin's foundation team, and social media health influencer Doctor Mike. Hands-only CPR is simple enough to learn in minutes and doesn't require mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, making it accessible for anyone to perform.

The Ripple Effect

This world record attempt represents more than just a number in a book. It creates a wave of 4,000 newly trained lifesavers who will return to their families, schools, and workplaces equipped with a skill that could save someone they love.

Hamlin sees the event as a way to honor the medical staff and first responders who saved him while building a lasting legacy in his hometown. He hopes it encourages young people to stay active and reminds families to prioritize health and wellness alongside life-saving skills.

Registration is open online for anyone who wants to participate in making history while learning a skill that truly matters.

One hour of training could create thousands of moments when someone says, "I'm so glad I knew what to do."