LSU has provided an update on live mascot Mike the Tiger, who received radiation treatment earlier this month at Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center in Baton Rouge for his spindle cell sarcoma, a rare form of cancer .

The school’s update elaborates on a recent article from The Advocate which relayed the news of a successful treatment. According to the release, Mike’s face is symmetrical again and his right eye has opened up completely with all the swelling gone, all signs that the tumor has shrunk.

As was previously reported, however, the treatment is not a cure:

Eventually, the radiation-resistant cells remaining in the tumor will resume growth. As for timeframes, it is estimated that without treatment Mike VI would have lived for just 1-2 months; with treatment, perhaps 1-2 years.

It does, however, give Mike more time and allow him to live more comfortably. The release states that his attitude, weight and appetite are all normal.

LSU veterinarian Dr. Dave Baker will continue to monitor Mike, but no further treatment is planned.

Since the news of Mike VI’s health was first reported, he has received an outpouring of support from around the college football community, most notably from other schools with live mascots.