LSU’s live mascot, Mike the Tiger, was recently diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. In response, the Arkansas Razorbacks live mascot, Tusk, reached out to show support and solidarity.
The Arkansas Razorbacks and the LSU Tigers aren’t exactly best friends. The two programs have built up quite a rivalry since the Hogs joined the SEC. The two football teams battle it out every year for the Golden Boot, and it’s almost always a close, hard fought, and entertaining game.
The keyword there being “game”. Sometimes, the real world has a way of sneaking up on you and putting everything else in perspective. Earlier this week, it was announced that Mike was diagnosed with a rare, inoperable, and terminal form of cancer.
The 11 year old, 420 pound jungle cat has a rare form of spindle cell sarcoma. He is the first tiger to have been diagnosed with the disease. The tumor is on the right side of Mike’s face, and is big enough that it is displacing his eye.
While Tusk and Mike may not be BFFs, these two mascots, and our two universities, share a unique bond in our live mascots. Not every school has one, and the schools that do understand the heartache that comes with the passing of the animals.
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In a show of support, Tusk and the University of Arkansas have sent flowers and a letter to Mike, encouraging him to get well soon so they can meet on the field of battle again. Tusk may be a boar, but he’s not boarish.
Get well soon, Mike. #MascotsStickTogether