Lance Armstrong Once Revealed How Unwavering Support From Cancer Survivors Proved Crucial for His Livestrong Foundation: “Gave It Momentum”

Lance Armstrong achieved great heights before falling into the vicious cycle of doping. The champion cyclist conquered one of the toughest sports on earth for seven years straight. However, fans were left disillusioned after his conviction in the doping scandal. Yet, there is one victory that no one can take away from Armstrong.

Armstrong’s fight against cancer and then the emergence of the Livestrong foundation is probably his greatest achievement. Back in 2012, the cyclist appeared for a light conversation with Texas Monthly and discussed his opinions on cancer.

Lance Armstrong received massive support from the cancer survivors

While listening to the live recording of a comedian’s gig, Armstrong was impressed with the courage of the comedian who openly talked about living with cancer. In conversation with a Texas Monthly journalist, Armstrong talked in length about his cancer foundation Livestrong. While the cyclist had been facing allegations of doping during that time, the journalist wanted to know whether the support of the Livestrong community had remained the same. Armstrong had replied firmly, “No doubt”. 

Armstrong further added that he had moved on from all such insecurities. He admitted that while cycling gave a platform to the foundation, the support from the survivors “made it bigger and gave it momentum”. “We’re getting stronger. We’re getting bigger.”, Armstrong claimed. 

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He explained that his priority was to continue the process. Cycling tours were never the priority for the Livestrong community. Their aim was to look at the bigger picture. “To them, the birth and success of Livestrong is a hundredfold what one Tour was,” he added. 

Livestrong had other priorities than Armstrong’s tours

According to Armstrong, Livestrong focussed on educating people about cancer rather than just awareness. He believed that navigating a proper mechanism for serious diseases helps communities fight against them with a positive mindset. He said, “For us, education, navigation, and answering the questions I spoke about earlier, are the pillars of our program.” 

Armstrong stepped down from the post of chairman of Livestrong when he faced widespread hatred for letting down his fans and the spirit of the sport. However, people still acknowledge the success he brought to Livestrong. 

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