The Kansas Jayhawks community is abuzz with admiration and emotion after a heartwarming revelation about one of their own. A recent anonymous letter released by Lawrence Memorial Hospital has shed light on an extraordinary act of quiet heroism: Mike Novitsky, the veteran offensive lineman for the Kansas Jayhawks, has been quietly donating blood for the past five years—nearly 100 times—primarily to help children battling cancer.
According to the hospital, Novitsky possesses a rare blood type—one that makes his donations especially critical for young cancer patients undergoing intense treatments like chemotherapy and bone marrow transplants. What’s more moving is that until now, no one outside of the medical staff knew about it. Not his coaches. Not his teammates. Not even his closest friends.
“It was never about recognition,” said a hospital nurse who wished to remain anonymous. “He would come in, usually wearing a hoodie and a ball cap, always kind and humble. He just wanted to help. And he did—over and over again.”
The letter, which was posted on the hospital’s bulletin board and later circulated online, didn’t initially name Novitsky. But after some investigation by hospital volunteers, the pieces fell into place. When Novitsky was approached, he confirmed the story—reluctantly.
“I didn’t do it for the headlines,” Novitsky said quietly during a short press availability on Monday. “I just thought… if I can help someone, especially a kid who’s fighting for their life, then why wouldn’t I?”
His decision to step into the background even while playing a physically demanding, high-profile sport only adds depth to his quiet act of service. Blood donation—especially for those with rare types—can be life-saving. For children undergoing cancer treatment, transfusions can mean the difference between life and death.
Jayhawks head coach Lance Leipold was visibly emotional when he addressed the media.
“This is who Mike is,” Leipold said. “A team player on and off the field. His strength isn’t just in his blocking or discipline—it’s in his heart.”
Since the letter went public, social media has lit up with praise, and Jayhawks fans have started organizing a community blood drive in honor of Novitsky’s contribution. #BeLikeMike has begun trending locally, encouraging others to donate blood and “make quiet miracles happen.”
Children’s cancer survivors and their families have also begun sharing personal stories online, expressing gratitude to the anonymous donor—now known—who gave them hope when they needed it most.
One message from a mother reads:
“To the man who gave my daughter the strength to fight another day, thank you. You’ll never know the lives you’ve touched—but we do. You’re our hero.”
As Novitsky enters what may be his final season in college football, he’s already made an impact far greater than what statistics can measure. In a world often hungry for big headlines and personal glory, his story is a reminder that the most powerful acts are often the quietest.
