When Wichita State University's mascot WuShock traveled to Denver to encourage Zach Mesch, a former WSU student who performed as WuShock last year, little did the mascot or anyone else know the story would take such a dramatic turn.

WuShock was a huge hit at the walk/fundraiser held in Denver in Mesch's honor, but the big news of the weekend occurred when Mesch learned he wouldn't need his last round of chemo because he is cancer-free. It is a remarkable turnaround, considering that he was diagnosed with leukemia last November and had to leave school to go to The Children's Hospital in Aurora, Colo.

About 300 friends and supporters raised $5,500 at a benefit walk for Mesch on Saturday, May 8, in Denver. Participants included WuShock, two former WuShocks, a contingent of current WSU students, alumni and friends, and parents of WSU students.

According to Christine Schneikart-Luebbe, dean of enrollment services at WSU and a participant in the event in Denver, WuShock was able to see Mesch in the hospital on Friday evening and Saturday. 

"Zach and his parents are really incredible people," said Schneikart-Luebbe. "They were so grateful that we made this trip. They said knowing we were coming helped Zach to rally throughout the week. But now that he is cancer-free, it's such a happy story. This was a life-changing trip for me and the students who came with me. I seriously felt like we experienced a miracle."

As the result of a Facebook request, WuShock, Schneikart-Luebbe and several WSU students traveled to Denver to encourage Mesch.