College mascots are central to the pride and image of countless institutions across the country. They are loved and revered by all. They strike fear into the hearts of their opponents and carry with them the long-standing traditions of their alma maters. Some mascots, however, transcend their original purpose. When LSU chose the Fighting Tigers as their mascot, they couldn’t have possibly realized how deeply important "Mike The Tiger" would become in Louisiana culture. If you were born in the Boot State or have spent much time there at all, it’s hard not to see a tiger without thinking of home.

When Mike was recently diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, the LSU community was broken hearted, but they weren't alone. People from across the entire country were saddened by this tragedy, and support for our dear Mike was pouring in from every direction, including some places you might not expect. On Saturday, June 11th, The Boot will be hosting the first of what they hope to be many “Save Mike” nights. LSU Students get in for free with their tiger cards, and the general public will pay $5 for admission. All proceeds will be donated to the Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance.The outpouring of support following Mike VI’s diagnosis has shown that mascots can be more than just an image. They can become a rallying cry, an instrument of change and a beloved, living, breathing creature that will all care for. We still know very little about cancer in humans and domestic animals, but we know significantly less about cancer in exotic animal species. Perhaps that is why doctors and vets alike have agreed that there is little they can do for Mike and that his diagnosis is most likely terminal.

There may not be anything we can do for Mike VI, but maybe we can do something for Mike VII, or VIII, and other exotic animals in the world who might suffer from similar tragedies. Every Saturday in the Fall, we all gather on the parade grounds to eat, drink, and dance the day away before crowding into Death Valley to cheer on our Fighting Tigers. This Saturday, it’s time for us to crowd into The Boot to support our real-life Fighting Tiger.