Michael Blockhus, UNI's starting 141-pounder, went through heart surgery last offseason. Des Moines Register
CEDAR FALLS, Ia. — This is a story about Michael Blockhus’ heart. But before we get there, we must first start with a story about his ears.
A redshirt freshman wrestler for Northern Iowa, Blockhus has some gnarly ears, all puffed up and deformed. Cauliflower ear is like a badge of honor for wrestlers, the medals they carry around at all times. It is a sometimes-painful reminder of the years spent on the mat.
His mom, Melissa, begged him to treat and protect his ears, but Blockhus refused.