As a professional cyclist, Armstrong is best known for winning the Tour de France a record seven consecutive times. Olympics, world championships, you name it, there are few major events he has not raced. His physical talents don't end with the bike. He has completed marathons and raced at the highest level in triathlons. He is, without doubt, one of the greatest athletes of all time.
In his community work, Armstrong is founder and chairman of the Lance Armstrong Foundation for cancer research and support. The Foundation has raised millions of dollars for research and support services such as anti-stigma campaigns, fertility hope, and survivor empowerment initiative. The Foundation has helped many with practical information and tools for tackling cancer. He has created an amazing legacy.
As a man, he overcame testicular cancer, with a tumour that had metastasized to his brain and lungs. The doctors had given him less than 20% chance of survival yet he recovered. Not only did he passively recover, but he actively conquered by going on to achieve the above efforts.
But it seems Armstrong's battles continue. Former teammates have been vocal with drug accusations. Former team member Tyler Hamilton, who himself tested positive for drugs, has told a U.S. grand jury that Armstrong was part of a sophisticated doping program.
The plot thickens because their team, US Postal, is a government organization. Therefore, any accusations can be investigated by a US court. If Armstrong is brought before the court and found guilty, he could see jail time. This is much more than just a ban from the sport.
But Armstrong's defence is strong. He is one of the most tested athletes in the history of sports. He has passed nearly 500 tests over 20 years of competition. The International Cycling Union (UCI) also backs Armstrong, saying Hamilton's claims are "completely unfounded."
So the mud continues to be thrown. The facts are hard to find, and Armstrong continues on through the peaks and valleys. Check out www.livestrong.org