Thursday, June 10, 2004

Armstrong Promotes Cancer Research

With Lance Armstrong pushing for a record sixth consecutive Tour de France title this summer, his cancer research foundation is using the signature color of the world's most grueling bicycle race for a new fund-raising campaign.

The Lance Armstrong Foundation and Nike are promoting the sale of yellow wristbands engraved with the message, "Live Strong."

"Yellow has taught me the true meaning of sacrifice. Yellow makes me suffer. Yellow is the reason I'm here," Armstrong said. "Young people with cancer should be empowered to fight hard, dream big and live strong."

On sale since May 17, the wristbands can be purchased for $1 online at www.wearyellow.com or at Nike retailers.

The company will donate $1 million to the foundation, which hopes to raise an additional $5 million through wristband sales. Proceeds will go to the foundation for programs for young people with cancer.

Foundation President Mitch Stoller said officials hope the wristbands will become as recognizable as the pink ribbons associated with breast cancer.

Armstrong overcame advanced testicular cancer that had spread to his lungs and brain. He went from having a 50 percent chance to live in 1996 to a string a five straight tour wins from 1999-2003, forever linking himself with the yellow jersey worn by the tour leader and champion.

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