For anyone coping with cancer, or even coping with the challenges of life, the story of Lance Armstrong's cancer recovery is inspiring. His personal story has become merged with a larger story through the foundation he started to help others suffering with this disease. The Lance Armstrong Foundation was the beginning of his life as an advocate for people living with all types of malignancies and a representative for the cancer community on the world stage.
Early Life
Lance Armstrong was born Lance Edward Gunderson on Sept. 18, 1971, in Plano, Texas. His father disappeared when he was 2, and his mother later married Terry Keith Armstrong. Athletic at an early age, Lance Armstrong took up running and swimming seriously by age 10. He was competing in adult amateur triathlons by age 13, and became a professional triathlete at 16. He won the national sprint-course triathlon championship in 1989 and 1990. Armstrong then turned his focus on his favorite sport, cycling, and at age 19 became the U.S. national amateur champion.
Diagnosis
By 1995, Armstrong had won his first Tour de Pont. He won again in 1996, setting several records and qualifying for the U.S. Olympic team. In October 1996, he was diagnosed with stage three nonseminomatous testicular cancer. Testicular cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in men from 15 to 35. When found early, it has a cure rate of 90 percent. Armstrong, being healthy, ignored the signs, and by the time it was diagnosed, the cancer had spread to his lungs, abdomen, lymph nodes and later his brain. He opted for a dangerous chemotherapy treatment and surgical removal of one of his testicles and the tumors in his brain.
After Treatment
In February 1997, Armstrong was told he was cancer-free. His doctor had given him a 50 percent chance of survival to keep his spirits up, but his actual odds were much lower. At this time, he established the Lance Armstrong Foundation for cancer patients. The organization has helped cancer patients through fundraising events, awareness and advocacy campaigns, and opportunities to volunteer. Armstrong attributes his recovery to his strong physical conditioning, good support system and competitive spirit.
Today
Armstrong's return to cycling and seven consecutive Tour de France victories from 1999 to 2005 are legendary. He holds the record for the most victories by an individual. Retired now, he spends time with his foundation, but still competes in cycling and running events. He lives in Austin, Texas, where his story of cancer survival continues to give hope.
Member Comments