Saed Awad never imagined that a routine stop at a red light in 2023 would mark the beginning of a new chapter defined by both fragility and fierce loyalty. The sudden heart attack forced him to confront a reality he had long postponed: the need for professional cardiac care.
A Bond Forged in the Stands
For nearly eight years, Awad has been the primary caretaker of Sinan, a squirrel rescued as a baby and raised alongside the roar of Neyland Stadium. Sinan’s antics have become a ritual for Volunteers fans, and his Instagram feed now boasts more than 60,000 followers who tune in to see the creature’s daily adventures.
The relationship extends beyond the stadium. Students like Jackson Galloway describe Sinan as essential to campus spirit, a living mascot that bridges the gap between tradition and community. Yet the joy of that connection is now shadowed by a growing financial burden.
Medical expenses have piled up despite insurance coverage, and Awad has been unable to secure a specialist appointment. Rather than rely on medication, he has turned to diet and exercise, reporting improvements in blood pressure and blood sugar but still battling high cholesterol. The regimen buys time, but it does not erase the cost of ongoing treatment.
To keep the bills at bay, Awad works unpredictable hours, delivering prescriptions, driving for Uber Eats, and taking on any gig that can cover a medication refill or a doctor’s visit. The irregular schedule forces him to miss moments with Sinan, and the constant juggling act threatens the very routine that has defined their partnership.
The financial strain is not just personal; it risks a broader cultural loss. As Awad’s ability to attend games and support Sinan wanes, the tradition that students like Galloway cherish hangs in the balance. The fear is that without Awad’s stewardship, the beloved squirrel’s presence at football events could fade.
For now, Awad remains hopeful that community support and creative solutions will bridge the gap. He continues to watch over Sinan through the night, ensuring the squirrel’s health while navigating a landscape of medical debt that threatens both his own well‑being and a cherished campus ritual.