University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Heintschel Gives Back Through “Have a Heart” Campaign
7/28/2026 12:23:00 PM | Football
Inspired by a childhood friend, Pitt’s quarterback is helping children and families at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH—For Mason Heintschel, leadership does not begin when he enters the huddle or end when he leaves the field.
The Pitt quarterback put that belief into action Monday by launching "Have a Heart," a fundraising campaign benefiting the Heart Institute at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Surrounded by Pitt leaders, hospital representatives and families whose lives have been changed by cardiac care, Heintschel spoke about an opportunity to use football for a greater purpose.
"My football career has given me really great opportunities and a really great platform," Heintschel said. "I'm glad to be able to use that for something bigger than the game of football."
That purpose can be found in the number on his jersey.
Heintschel wears No. 6 to honor Lukas Mason, a close childhood friend who died after being struck by a vehicle in 2020. Lukas became an organ donor, providing lifesaving gifts to six people.
The loss shaped Heintschel long before he became Pitt's starting quarterback. Now, Lukas' memory is helping him create hope for children facing serious heart conditions.
"Just to see that he was able to help somebody else out, it puts a smile on your face," Heintschel said. "It's truly a miracle."
The campaign will raise money and awareness for the Heart Institute, supporting the specialized care, research and clinical programs available to children and their families.
UPMC Children's Hospital President Diane Hupp praised Heintschel for recognizing the responsibility that accompanies his position.
"I thank you for what you do on the field, but today, this is about what you are leading off the field," Hupp said.
The impact of that leadership was reflected in one of Monday's youngest guests.
Six-year-old Sloane attended the announcement with her mother, Nora Belansen-Hart. After living with congenital heart defects and waiting three years for a donor, Sloane received a heart transplant on May 28.
Heintschel had met Sloane's family while they were still waiting. Seeing her again, this time recovering and thriving, made the mission behind "Have a Heart" tangible.
"Being able to find a donor and get that kind of help and support is truly something special," Heintschel said. "It's a blessing."
For Sloane's family, the campaign represents more than financial support. It shows families navigating difficult medical journeys that the Pitt community sees them and is prepared to stand beside them.
"To have a community at Pitt truly see these kids, and not just see them, but put forth the effort and actually try to do something—it's amazing," Belansen-Hart said.
Director of Athletics Allen Greene and Head Football Coach Pat Narduzzi joined Heintschel at the announcement, continuing a deep relationship between Pitt Football and UPMC Children's.
Panthers past and present have consistently supported the hospital and its patients through visits, donations and individual fundraising efforts. With "Have a Heart," Heintschel is adding his own chapter to that tradition.
"It's inspiring," Hupp said. "He obviously sees something more than his career in football. He wants to give back."
Heintschel will begin his sophomore season when Pitt hosts Bucknell on Sept. 5 at Acrisure Stadium. Each time he takes the field, the No. 6 on his back will continue to carry the memory of his friend.
Through "Have a Heart," it will now carry that memory into the lives of children and families throughout Pittsburgh.
