Lance Armstrong

Q: Who is Lance Armstrong?

A: Lance Armstrong was only 25-years-old and emerging as one of the world's best cyclists when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 1996.  Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men aged 15-35. Though it is highly treatable if detected early, Lance had ignored the warning signs. Left untreated, the cancer had spread to Lance's abdomen, lungs and brain. However, Lance declared himself a cancer survivor and took an active role in educating himself about his disease and the treatment. Armed with knowledge and confidence in medicine, he underwent aggressive treatment and beat the disease.

Q: Why did Lance create the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF)?

A: During treatment, before his recovery, before he even knew his own fate and before he ever won a Tour de France, Lance created the Lance Armstrong Foundation, marking the beginning of his role as a cancer survivor and a world representative for the cancer community. Lance believes in "the obligation of the cured" - the idea that those who survive cancer should help others do the same. He plans to lead this fight and he hopes that you join him.

Q: What was Lance's cancer diagnosis?

A: Lance was diagnosed with an aggressive form of testicular cancer, containing 60% choriocarcinoma, 40% embryonal and less than 1% teratoma.

Q: Where was Lance treated and by whom?

A: Lance was treated at Indiana University Medical Center by Drs. Larry Einhorn and Craig Nichols.

Q: What was Lance's treatment protocol?

A: Lance underwent two surgeries - one to remove his cancerous testicle and another to remove two cancerous lesions on his brain. He also received one round of BEP (Bleomycin, Etoposide and Platinol) chemotherapy, followed by three rounds of VIP chemotherapy (Ifostamide, Etoposide and Platinol). Lance's treatment lasted from October to December 1996.

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