Linebacker Joshua Uche committed himself to the Patriots by inking a new contract, but he also committed to playing for another season under head coach Jerod Mayo.

In addition, the 25-year-old was strengthening his ties to the New England community, where he has been very active lately.

Uche organized an art supply drive at the KyleCares Mental Health Conference earlier this offseason. Uche has been engaged with KyleCares for two seasons, and the summit is aimed at helping children and teenagers with mental health issues. He had the opportunity to visit the children getting care at Franciscan Children’s Hospital last Thursday and deliver those donations.

“This helps to put things into perspective,” Uche remarked following the visit.

“Being a member of the New England Patriots and wearing the No. 55 jersey helps me to remember that, at the end of the day, I’m just a regular person who plays a sport that a lot of people watch. It was enjoyable for me to step down from our platform and spend time with children who are facing more difficult circumstances than we do as football players.
At the Brighton, Massachusetts-based Franciscan Children’s Hospital, kids with mental health issues, intricate medical illnesses, or special education needs can get the kind and supportive care they need from professionals who are dedicated to assisting them in realizing their full potential.

Elizabeth Smith, senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer, adds, “We’re one of the very few hospitals in the country that provides the services that we do. Franciscan Children’s has a really unique mission.”

“We pride ourselves on caring for kids with the most complex needs – whether it’s medical, mental health, or educational.”

Uche was able to spend a considerable amount of time with children receiving care at the hospital’s inpatient child and adolescent mental health unit, as well as tour the medical units and interact with children undergoing treatment there.

As they worked together to paint t-shirts, he witnessed the children’s extraordinary talent as they shared fabric markers, smiles, and jokes.

Uche stated, “Mental health is very important.” “As athletes, we’ve always placed a strong focus on strengthening our arms, legs, and other body parts, yet our minds are the most vital muscles. You can boost your mental health in a variety of ways, such as by creating art like we did today, conversing with others, and appreciating the tiny things in life.


Uche has devoted his entire Patriots career to dispelling the stigma associated with mental health.