The Louisiana State University, home of the LSU Tigers, has a beloved mascot. His name is Mike the Tiger, and he’s an icon around campus and around the state of Louisiana. He’s the sixth tiger to represent the school. At 420 pounds, he’s quite a big boy. The LSU Tigers are a force to be reckoned with in terms of athletics and what Mike the Tiger stands for. However, contrary to popular belief, they are not invincible, and neither is Mike.
Last month, when the LSU veterinary professionals found a tumor on his face, Mike the Tiger was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma which is a very rare form of cancer. The veterinary school at LSU has made a statement saying that unless Mike gets the proper treatment he needs, he might only live for one or two months. They went on to say, however, that if he were to get the treatment, he could live for an extra year or two. Being the iconic cat that he is, the choice was clear.
After recently sedating him, the veterinarians brought the giant cat to a human cancer facility not far from campus. There, the doctors administered a CT scan and radiation to help the treatment. They are taking very good care of Mike, making sure he’s comfortably sedated and in a position that will allow for the most effective possible treatment for his cancer. The doctors have said that the treatment could take anywhere from one to three days, but that it will extend his life expectancy by at least a year. Big old Mike won't be going anywhere anytime too soon.
