DARREN WILCOX
BYU's beloved mascot is resting comfortably after completing surgery Thursday to repair damage done in a recent accident.
Cosmo, the furry phenom who prowls the sidelines of BYU sporting events, may not be available when BYU's football team tangles with the University of Washington Saturday.
Doctors had said before the surgery that Cosmo had a 90-95 percent chance of recovering in time for Saturday's game.
Fan reaction to the accident has been overwhelming in supportive of the mascot. Sarah McKasson, a junior from McAllen, Texas, majoring in family science, said she first read of the accident Wednesday.
'I was shocked and concerned for Cosmo's well-being at first,' said McKasson. 'I hope he is well enough to attend (Saturday's) game, because they aren't the same without him.'
The news Cosmo will likely appear different from the neck up has caused some students to feel uncomfortable. The consensus is he might be disfigured or horribly scarred.
Steve Wright, a senior from St. Louis, Mo., majoring in interior design, said Cosmo's physical appearance should not be the focus of attention.
'What really matters is the spirit he has within him,' Wright said. 'Does a cougar's outward appearance really make him who he is? I think we should accept him despite what has occurred.'
However, not all fans are convinced by the story and believe the truth is being covered up by a higher authority.
'I think it's just a big scam,' said James Norton, a senior from Orem, Utah, majoring in illustration. 'I believe his head was actually shrunk by the Men In Black. I think Cosmo is at least half alien, and the accident in the canyon is an attempt to hide the truth.'
For now, all fans can do is wait, hope and pray.