Shohei Ohtani's Quiet Act of Kindness Saved Former Teammate's Mother's Life

Angels star made a private donation to cover medical expenses for Gus Varland's mother battling rare disease

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:18pm

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Los Angeles Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani quietly made a significant donation to help cover the medical costs for the mother of his former Los Angeles Dodgers teammate Gus Varland, who was battling a rare and expensive disease. The act of generosity went unnoticed until Varland's mother recovered and the story was revealed.

Why it matters

Ohtani's selfless gesture demonstrates his character extends far beyond his on-field heroics, as the two-way star is known to help others in need without seeking recognition. The story also highlights the financial burdens faced by families dealing with rare and costly medical conditions.

The details

In 2024, while Varland was briefly with the Dodgers, he shared with his teammates that his mother was fighting amyloidosis, a rare disease affecting vital organs. The treatment was extremely expensive and put a strain on the family. When Ohtani learned of Varland's situation, he immediately offered to cover the medical costs, telling Varland, 'Of course I'll help you.' Ohtani made the donation quietly, without seeking any publicity.

  • In 2024, Varland shared his mother's illness with Dodgers teammates.
  • Ohtani provided financial assistance to Varland's family at that time.
  • In the 2025 World Series between the Dodgers and Blue Jays, Varland's mother was confirmed to be cancer-free.

The players

Shohei Ohtani

A two-way superstar for the Los Angeles Angels, known for his dominant pitching and prodigious power hitting. Ohtani has quietly helped others in need without seeking recognition.

Gus Varland

A former pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who shared with his teammates that his mother was battling a rare and expensive medical condition.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who revealed Ohtani's generous act of helping Varland's family.

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What they’re saying

“Shohei does a lot of great things, but a lot of what he does is on the down low, quiet.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

“He's the best, also as a human being.”

— Gus Varland

What’s next

The story of Ohtani's quiet generosity is expected to further cement his reputation as a selfless superstar who uses his platform to make a positive impact off the field.

The takeaway

Shohei Ohtani's act of kindness in helping cover the medical expenses for his former teammate's mother battling a rare disease demonstrates the two-time MVP's character extends far beyond his on-field heroics, as he quietly uses his resources to make a difference in people's lives.