RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — People in the Triangle are stepping up to support longtime Carolina Hurricanes hype man and team ambassador Mike Whiting – best known as ““Big Mike”” – as he faces serious health and housing challenges.
Whiting, who has served as a Canes ambassador since 2002 and worked as a Triangle preschool teacher for more than two decades, needs extensive dental work and a double hip replacement.
Known for his infectious energy and generosity, Whiting has spent years giving back to the community, including organizing charitable efforts with his students each year on his birthday.
It’s very humbling. I knew I would probably get some support, but I had no idea how much. I just feel the love.
“Each year for my birthday, I have the kids bring in things in lieu of presents – items to help the local hospital or a kids’ charity,” Whiting said.
Now, it’s the community’s turn to give back. A close friend and co-worker, Jan Cooper, organized a fundraiser that raised more than $50,000 in less than a week to help Whiting get the care he needs.
“It’s very humbling. I knew I would probably get some support, but I had no idea how much. I just feel the love,” Whiting said.
Cooper said, “I tell him all the time, you have no idea how big your presence is and how much people love you.”
Copyright © 2025 WTVD-TV. All Rights Reserved.