Mark Howe

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Those sacred words ring loud & true year round, but resonate even more during this Season of Giving. Last night @kohl_rosario brought them to life with a gesture that filled my heart with pride and gave one young fan a memory (and memento) he’ll cherish for a lifetime. Some context: This season through the immense generosity of a couple anonymous (but AMAZING) donors, 10 local pediatric cancer patients have been selected to receive a Kansas Basketball experience of a lifetime, complete with courtside seats, a meet & greet with the team and Coach Self, a postgame tour and even some swag bags for the whole family as well. The idea is to give these cancer-fighting families at least one night of not having to think about chemotherapy, radiation, mounting medical expenses, etc. Last night, Colby Lash was one of two special kids that got to enjoy this awesome experience in The Phog. Now, back to Kohl & Colby’s instant bond… Fresh off one his best games as a Jayhawk, Kohl was introduced to Colby and heard a quick scouting report of all that this courageous young man has been through, fighting Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia for well over a year. Instantly inspired & incredibly impressed by Colby’s strength, resilience & resolve, Kohl ripped off his signature new jacket and presented it to Colby. His parents proudly watched as Kohl continued to build up the young man with encouragement & praise for what an inspiration he is and even traded contact info with him so they could stay in touch. Such a special gesture, and one that will have an impact & ripple effect on Colby and his family for the rest of their lives. The best part is, as special as that moment was, it’s not entirely unique. I got to watch @TreWhite19 form a similar instant connection with a young cancer patient last week and offer to invite the child back for a game later in the year. We’ve got some awesome young men on this team (and tremendous leaders coaching them) whose hearts for helping others are just as impressive as their skills on the court. What an inspiration this holiday season. What a wonder group to cheer for year round. 💙❤️ Happy Holidays & Rock Chalk! #kubball