Living proof that miracles DO happen, Lance Edwards Armstrong (1971–), the world's greatest cyclist, is the winner of six straight Tour de France races (1998–2004) and cancer survivor.

"If you ever get a second chance at life, you've got to go all the way," he once said.

In October 1996, the athletic wonder was diagnosed with advanced testicular cancer that had spread to his lungs and brain. With surgery, aggressive chemotherapy, and a positive fighting spirit, Armstrong today is cancer-free and an inspiration to the 10 million people living with cancer.

"The truth is, if you asked me to choose between winning the Tour de France and cancer, I would choose cancer. Odd as it sounds, I would rather have the title of cancer survivor than winner of the Tour, because of what it has done for me as a human being, a man, a husband, a son and a father," he said.

Born in Plano, Texas, Armstrong has always been a passionate competitor and won the Iron Kids Triathlon at age 13. He went on to become a two-time Olympian and the most charismatic cyclist in the world.

Armstrong is the first to win the Tour's demanding course of 2,032 miles for an all-time record of six titles.

"My career is going to be played out year by year... The record won't keep me here. Happiness will," Armstrong said.