Thanks, Lance

05.5.2008 | 6:07 pm

Look what I just found in my email inbox.

lance-win-susan.jpg

I’ve said before that Lance Armstrong’s contributions to the battle against cancer eclipse by far his professional cycling accomplishments. It means a lot to Susan and me that he’d take the time to send a personal message of support.

148 Comments

  1. Comment by Laura | 05.5.2008 | 6:11 pm

    wow. That’s incredible.

    Go Lance and WIN Susan!

  2. Comment by Keith | 05.5.2008 | 6:11 pm

    Awesome, I hope she has the same success fighting that he did.

  3. Comment by Khirsten | 05.5.2008 | 6:19 pm

    I have been following your blog and have just been impacted by your last few posts. I feel so heavy hearted for you and want you to know your family is in my thoughts and prayers. When I saw the photo from Lance Armstrong it moved me to leave a comment. Just wanted you all to know that there are people you don’t even know thinking of you all.

    Dude, I don’t even cycle outside anymore. I know lame, I am now spin instructor. Hope that is okay? =) And I heard about your website from Pioneer Woman!

  4. Comment by kentucky joe | 05.5.2008 | 6:20 pm

    Here’s hoping Lance’s super healing powers are not unique but also lie within Susan!

  5. Comment by Don | 05.5.2008 | 6:23 pm

    That is totally awesome. Lance is one class act! Also, couldn’t agree more with the message! Kick the cancers a** Susan!!
    Love and Prayer’s continually abounding for your family!

  6. Comment by 331miles | 05.5.2008 | 6:25 pm

    Last Saturday I rode a ride that benefitted the LAF. Couldn’t stop thinking about your challenge. WIN!

  7. Comment by Sandra K. | 05.5.2008 | 6:28 pm

    Elden and Susan,
    Kellene is my most amazing friend. I’m glad she is there with you. Lean on her, she is so grounded. My prayers are with you. Thank you for letting Kellene post-pone her visit with you so we could book down the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon. I know she was torn about enjoying herself when her family was in such pain, but I think it was good for her. My prayers have and will be in your behalf.

  8. Comment by bee$ | 05.5.2008 | 6:31 pm

    That is incredible! It’s incredible the impact your blog has.

    1st timothy 6:12Fight the good fight of the Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

    I don’t know were you stand on this, But This scripture has helped through a lot. more importantly JESUS CHRIST was doing all the work when it was at its worst. I pray your family would draw near to him in faith. He is the great comforter,and healer.

    Good night
    Bee$

  9. Comment by mamafitz | 05.5.2008 | 6:33 pm

    Is there anything. . . beyond prayer . . . that we can do to help?

    Beth

  10. Comment by MonsieurM | 05.5.2008 | 6:33 pm

    Wow. That is fantastic. Follow Lance’s lead, and WIN!

  11. Comment by BZ | 05.5.2008 | 6:56 pm

    Awesome. Win Susan! LiveStrong.

  12. Comment by je | 05.5.2008 | 7:06 pm

    Excellent!

    Win, indeed. She’s not alone in this fight. Neither are you, Fatty.

  13. Comment by Rick S. | 05.5.2008 | 7:11 pm

    Very cool of Lance to send that message. Susan (and family)- Keep fighting! You’ve inspired us all.

  14. Comment by nikki | 05.5.2008 | 7:12 pm

    Sweet!
    Lance is the reason I began wearing my LiveStrong bracelet years ago – which never comes off – and Susan is my reason for wearing it today. Continued thoughts and prayers to you and the family!

  15. Comment by Arthur | 05.5.2008 | 7:17 pm

    Hey, I’m the tallish curly-haired mechanic at racer’s. I hereby donate to the cause any bike maintenance that you might need. Now I understand that Racer is way better than me at everything… but if your chain breaks and you can’t get down to the shop – call me (801.735.7667) and I’ll come change it… I also happen to have recently come into a large wealth of limericks on various topics – I will share them with you:

    It’s spring so this will be vary appropriate.

    Listen-up you yellow-bellied yard birds
    As you gather in threatening herds
    come on as a body
    Cause I know Karate
    And a few other mean Japanese words.

  16. Comment by Philly Jen | 05.5.2008 | 7:18 pm

    Whoa, Johnny Mellow is in the house!

    My mountain bike: Aluminum.
    My road bike: Steel.
    My credit card: Plastic. It’s not about the bikes.

    New readers: What can you do? Click the button in the right-hand column and support MikeRoadie on his way to raising $50K for the Lance Armstrong Foundation in Susan’s name. (Fatty gave him a big thumbs up back in January.)

    Trust me, you’ll hang with Susan, Fatty, and Lance on the climb a lot better if you shake those extra pennies out of your back pocket.

  17. Comment by KT | 05.5.2008 | 7:19 pm

    He looks much nicer in that picture that in his FRS super-juice ad.

    In the ad, he looks like, “buy this stuff. NOW” but he looks so friendly in the picture.

    Susan, we’re pulling for you. Keep fighting.

  18. Comment by eugie | 05.5.2008 | 7:26 pm

    That’s awesome. We are all rooting for Susan. Our good thoughts and positive energy are being sent to you, Susan, and the kiddies everyday. Win Susan!

  19. Comment by KatieA | 05.5.2008 | 7:27 pm

    I always thought he was a nice guy – regardless of the scandal that followed him throughout the Tours.

    Nice to be proven right. Lance rocks.

    Fatty, Susan – WIN.

  20. Comment by Adam | 05.5.2008 | 7:30 pm

    Nice! That is a keeper. Keep up the fight.

  21. Comment by steve sax | 05.5.2008 | 7:34 pm

    KatieA, I always thought he was a jerk…
    regardless of the fact that he never got
    caught actually doping.

    Nice to be proven wrong.

    Keep fighting, Susan.

  22. Comment by Chezhed270 | 05.5.2008 | 7:35 pm

    Fatty,

    Long time stalker, first time poster. I was devastated to hear the news about Susan’s cancer. TOTALLY UNFAIR!!! Your family is in my prayers that you can find peace, live in the moment and cherish what health you do have for as long as you can.

    I enjoy all your posts, from the funny ride reports to the crashes, the fake letters, and even the serious medical updates. You clearly touch many people and I hope you find a way to carry on.

    Sean

    p.s. Lance is a stand-up guy for reading Fat Cyclist and sending a personal note. Very Cool!!!

  23. Comment by Clydesteve | 05.5.2008 | 7:39 pm

    Yes Lance really is a good guy in person. I met him as one of the top fund raisers at a LAF event in 2003.

    Please donate to Mikeroadie’s Livestrong Challenge ride. The LAF really is a very valuable resource for those touched by cancer.

    https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=262627&supid=86687119

  24. Comment by Born4Lycra | 05.5.2008 | 7:40 pm

    Brilliant – if the Man with the Sh** (his words not mine) tells you to do it Susan you’d better get it done.
    How did he know – I had been trying through various long distance channels here to get in contact and ask for him to do something similar (a photo, an email both or something ) and was getting nowhere. Congratulations to whoever is involved and if he is a lurker (it’s possible why wouldn’t one legend read the blog of another) then congrats to you Mr A.

  25. Comment by Kim | 05.5.2008 | 7:44 pm

    Amazing inspiration! Look at all of the people pulling for you!

    Whatever we can do for you, consider it done. Just let us know.

    WIN, Susan!

  26. Comment by Lisa B | 05.5.2008 | 7:45 pm

    Cool, but really Lance is just one of many hundreds, nay, thousands, all sending the same message: WIN SUSAN!!!!

  27. Comment by UphillBattle | 05.5.2008 | 7:48 pm

    Susan, praying for you daily. Thank you for allowing Elden to share your journey with us. Storming heaven again and again on your behalf.
    B+ (be positive) and FROG (forever rely on God)

  28. Comment by The Rev | 05.5.2008 | 7:53 pm

    Stay strong Susan and Fatty. The Church of The Big Ring is pulling hard for you both. BTW, I wrote that stuff about Lance on my site before he sent that picture, good dude for sure.

    The Rev

  29. Comment by TomE | 05.5.2008 | 7:59 pm

    Fatty – looks like you need to send Lance a First Edition Pink WIN Jersey!!!
    Keep fightin’ Susan!!! The WORLD is behind you!
    Tom

  30. Comment by mgr | 05.5.2008 | 8:00 pm

    A cyclist who came from Austin
    Just wouldn’t let his cancer win
    Seven jerseys from France
    Took our hero Lance
    As he did, so shall our Sus’n.

    (Yeah, sorry about the slant rhyme there, Fatty.)

  31. Comment by Susan | 05.5.2008 | 8:01 pm

    See how cool you are! Here’s to another day, another miracle.

  32. Comment by miss & stewOZ | 05.5.2008 | 8:05 pm

    Amazing. Just like you and Susan. Please don’t forget this. We are right here with you.

  33. Comment by Nick | 05.5.2008 | 8:12 pm

    Elden – just caught up on your blog today – Sarah and I have you and Susan and the kids in our thoughts and prayers.

    Go Well.

  34. Comment by redemske | 05.5.2008 | 8:37 pm

    Keep fighting, Susan — don’t give up! Same goes for you, Fatty!

  35. Comment by KanyonKris | 05.5.2008 | 8:46 pm

    Way cool! Sure shows me that Lance has a personal interest in the fight against cancer and reaching out to as many people as he can. Fight on Lance! Fight on Susan!

  36. Comment by GregC | 05.5.2008 | 8:53 pm

    Elden & Susan
    I’m another longtime lurker, first time poster. Reading your words tugged hard at my heart. My wife had a tumor removed last fall behind her right eye, I thank God everyday that it wasn’t malignant and that everything went perfect. I’m not sure if I could have been as strong as you had the news been otherwise. I always try to find the positive in every situation (sometimes easier than others), I know its selfish by I’m going to go give my wife a big hug, just because, as soon as I post this. My prayers and thoughts are with you both and your children. Win Susan, Win

  37. Comment by KanyonKris | 05.5.2008 | 9:03 pm

    Am I correct in assuming that’s New York’s Central Park in the background?

  38. Comment by aussie kev | 05.5.2008 | 9:06 pm

    way to go – it wouldn’t quite have been the same if i did it would it !!!!
    i could photoshop one from rasmussen or vino for you though !!!

  39. Comment by Jennifer | 05.5.2008 | 9:08 pm

    Susan and Elden, just learned of this blog a few days ago. Keeping both of you in my thoughts. Keep fighting Susan!

  40. Comment by David Schloss | 05.5.2008 | 9:16 pm

    That’s incredible. Way to go Lance, way to go Suasan.

    KanyonKris – yes that’s central Park.

  41. Comment by josh | 05.5.2008 | 9:19 pm

    Miracles can happen. Keep fighting Susan. You are in my thoughts.

  42. Comment by graisseux | 05.5.2008 | 9:23 pm

    He musta stumbled on the “Open Letter” you wrote to him and felt like finally doing something good for a change. Seems a like a decent fellow.

    I don’t care what the dude did on a bike; there’s no such thing as “compassion enhancement drugs.”

  43. Comment by Marty | 05.5.2008 | 9:26 pm

    I was reading a book by the Dalai Lama last night. I don’t know if I quite got what he was saying, but this is how I interpreted it…

    People are not just their mind and body, people do not inherently exist by themselves.

    We are not just our minds and body but what makes us is our interaction with everything else in the world. Who we are is made up of other people’s perception of us as much as we are made of our physical selves.

    However Susan is feeling now, I will not even attempt to imagine, but to me (and probably a lot of others) she is still a strong, wonderful wife, mother and person. My perception of her is that if anyone will beat cancer, it will be her…and I don’t even know her.

    No, I’m not a Bhuddist, but it makes sense to me that who we really are is more than just who we personally think we are. You have made Susan wonderful in my eyes, and changed how I see my own wife. So I would like to thank you, and Susan, for sharing a little piece of yourselves. I don’t think I am the only one whose wife has suddenly become more important.

    Everyone I speak to about your story is moved by it. Everyone is rooting for you. We love an underdog, and we love to see them win, it inspires us and we become better people because of it.

    When Susan does win, thousands of people around the world will benefit and become better people. In the meantime through your blog she has already started “the butterfly effect”, she has already made people see their loved ones in a different light.

    Thankyou Susan and thankyou Fatty.

  44. Comment by bikesgonewild | 05.5.2008 | 9:41 pm

    …whether i (or anyone else) have questions about certain aspects of lance’s racing life, the man always had serious grit & massive determination, that was admirable…

    …now, i can appreciate lance again for the awesome class he’s shown to take the time to create a nice gesture for susan…i’m sure he gets a lotta calls on his time & energy…

    …& major props to whoever brought it to his attention…

  45. Comment by PeterUK | 05.5.2008 | 9:41 pm

    Fantastic! Now you have the ACE Fatty, which means you have the full Deck routing for you and Susan..

    I totally agree with Martys’ “Butterfly effect” by the way…

    Celebrate with a nice ride!!

  46. Comment by Robyn | 05.5.2008 | 9:41 pm

    Fatty – My thoughts and prayers are with you and Susan and your beautiful family. Your blog is amazing and has moved me to tears more than once, both laughing and crying.

    Wow, what timing Lance has. I’ve been reading From Lance to Landis and feeling just awful second-guessing every little thing. What he did for Susan was like a smack on my forehead reminding me of why I became a fan of his in the first place. grassieux said it perfectly when he said there’s no such thing as “compassion enhancement drugs.” I truly believe that if Lance could get out there and talk to everyone who has cancer, he would.

  47. Comment by Dutch Girlie On a Bike | 05.5.2008 | 10:08 pm

    Wow cool! Live strong!!!

  48. Comment by debi | 05.5.2008 | 11:04 pm

    delurking to send you all love and strength and sunshine from south africa

  49. Comment by Yukirin Boy | 05.5.2008 | 11:07 pm

    Awesome! LA himself on your team too.
    WIN

  50. Comment by buckythedonkey | 05.5.2008 | 11:56 pm

    Just back from a long weekend to discover that a lot can happen in a couple of days.

    Your weekend/Monday posts moved me to tears and I remain amazed that you have the courage to write them.

    I was wearing pink on the club ride on Sunday and a few people were asking me about the jersey. A long-term FC lurker said hello at the top of Box Hill. A few hours later you’re riding up Jacob’s Ladder in tears. It just seems so bloody rotten.

    You’re right about one thing: most of us cannot begin to imagine what you’re all going through.

    We may be able to help though, so if there’s anything we can do (and I honestly have no idea what that might be, but I can’t think of any limits either) please let us know.

    With all of our love and hugs, MMA&C

    WIN!

  51. Comment by Mel | 05.6.2008 | 12:02 am

    Fatty, your blog made me cry again, dammit… but in a good, ain’t people great kinda way this time.

    The best of British luck to you all,

    Mel

  52. Comment by Little1 | 05.6.2008 | 12:23 am

    ok, just to put a spanner in the works, it’s not LA that has been awesome here, it is Susan and Fatty, their awesomeness has been recognised! Now you should be beginning to realise just what kind of a reach you have both had and just how much you have impacted on all of us.

    p.s. nice one lance!

  53. Comment by Mike from Melbourne | 05.6.2008 | 1:27 am

    That is cool, well done Lance !
    And I echo his sentiments, Win Susan!

  54. Comment by Uncadan8 | 05.6.2008 | 2:24 am

    WIN, Susan, WIN!! Looks like you have Lance as your domestique; you couldn’t ask for better!

    Hey Fatty, any chance I could get my forum account re-activated?

  55. Comment by Uncadan8 | 05.6.2008 | 2:29 am

    Fatty, I got it figured out, so no worries. Carry on…

  56. Comment by Scott Morrison | 05.6.2008 | 2:44 am

    Win Susan, just beat it.

  57. Comment by elf040180 | 05.6.2008 | 2:49 am

    Pink Giro d’Italia Jersey on ebay…item# 140230664899

    100% going to Susan and Fatty for their trip to Italy. Let’s start checking of those boxes…

    WIN! Susan WIN!

  58. Comment by Vito | 05.6.2008 | 2:53 am

    I will be keeping you and Susan in my thoughts and prayers.

    Nigity – “Always keep a smile in your heart.”

  59. Comment by Donald | 05.6.2008 | 3:24 am

    Another reader here sending many positive thoughts and many prayers. It’s good you got in that ride… it’s good for you… it’s good to cry it out.
    Getting away… regrouping… and catching your breath… gives you the continued strength your wife and children need.

  60. Comment by Gavin | 05.6.2008 | 3:30 am

    You’ve got the support of the fighting Irish, good luck.

  61. Comment by Swedoz | 05.6.2008 | 3:45 am

    Awesome!

    Do the same Susan, defeat the cancer then win the bike race.

  62. Comment by Wes | 05.6.2008 | 4:32 am

    Way cool! W-I-N SUSANNNN!!!!! Woot!!

  63. Comment by Pammap | 05.6.2008 | 4:36 am

    Susan and Fatty, that is way cool!

  64. Comment by Robb | 05.6.2008 | 4:37 am

    Wow, so great to see the human side of Lance, after so many years of the media constantly de-humanizing him. WIN Susan, WIN!

    Elden, Susan and the rest of your family, you continue to be in my prayers, I hope the tremendous amount of support you’ve seen is somehow helping to relieve the burden upon you all.

    LIVESTRONG.

  65. Comment by Allan | 05.6.2008 | 4:43 am

    Awesome. Keep fighting.

  66. Comment by Sara | 05.6.2008 | 5:01 am

    Fantastic! Nice to see Lance stepping in too.
    Keep fighting!!!
    I do believe in miracles!!

  67. Comment by Mocougfan | 05.6.2008 | 5:04 am

    Stud move on his part. It’s cliche…but seriously Live Strong.

  68. Comment by Mocougfan | 05.6.2008 | 5:13 am

    btw….that will make for a totally cool screen saver reminder.

  69. Comment by Laurie | 05.6.2008 | 5:18 am

    I’ve just completed 8 rounds of chemo and 35 radiation treatments for bc and although I read countless books on the subject during my ordeal, it was Lance’s that inspired me the most. I’m so glad Susan has him in her corner. Remain hopeful, miracles happen every day.

    You are all in my constant thoughts and prayers.

    Laurie

  70. Comment by Laurie | 05.6.2008 | 5:19 am

    PS..I wanted to end with ‘Live Strong’!

  71. Comment by Rachel J | 05.6.2008 | 5:22 am

    Very nice of him… We all hope Susan will win and that whatever happens your family stays strong.

  72. Comment by dailytri | 05.6.2008 | 5:24 am

    Friends. You can never, ever, ever, ever have enough of ‘em. You’re blessed!

  73. Comment by stefano | 05.6.2008 | 5:40 am

    Fatty & Susan, you’ve got LA behind you and so many more sending positive vibes, prayers, and any other kind of good karma that can be mustered out of the universe. God Bless you and your family.

  74. Comment by Christopher | 05.6.2008 | 5:48 am

    WOW!
    Fat I must say I usually just skim through most blogs but you and your family’s story has me looking forward to to yours everyday. In fact I am sometimes a little disappointed when there isn’t anything new. I too have had cancer effect my life and family. The thoughts, prayers, and blessings of me and my family go out to yours. Good Luck!

  75. Comment by sans auto | 05.6.2008 | 6:33 am

    So, were you more excited that Lance would take the time to send you a picture, or to find out that he may be a regular reader of your blog?

    YOu’re in our prayers

  76. Comment by KeepYerBag | 05.6.2008 | 6:34 am

    Cool. Way cool.

    As always, our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Nelson family. We’re praying for the miracle.

  77. Comment by jkl | 05.6.2008 | 6:40 am

    No matter what, Susan has won. She has inspired so many people with her courage and ability to put up with Fatty :). Way to go Lance. Keep winning Susan.

  78. Comment by joe | 05.6.2008 | 6:42 am

    I just got caught up on your blog, the last post I had read was about your triathalon- way cool idea though, even my wife was into that one. She is a swimmer, but not so much on the running. Anyway, I came here and saw the lance pic first, and thought wow, that’s nice, but I wonder why now? Then I read your last few posts. Man, there isn’t anything anyone can say, so I’ll keep it brief.

    Medicine can do what it can, and people can do what they can, but in the end, all we’ve got are the moments we shared with the ones we love, and that’s the most important thing. Here is to hoping you get as many of those as you can. Our thoughts and hopes are with Susan, and the whole family.

    Joe and Kim

  79. Comment by chtrich | 05.6.2008 | 6:45 am

    Totally COOL! Thanks Lance.
    WIN! Suasan!

  80. Comment by KP | 05.6.2008 | 6:48 am

    I’m one among the masses who checks your blog at some point each week. I’ve always enjoyed your cycling posts and have been able to appreciate your strength and candor related to you and Susan and your family’s fight with cancer. I’m not normally a blog commenter, but I wanted to say for all who read, laugh and cry and yet remain anonymous, you and Susan are at the top of my good thoughts and prayers list.

  81. Comment by Lurker | 05.6.2008 | 7:03 am

    I’ve lurked on your blog for a long time and cried like a baby yesterday when I read the news you received on Friday. Like so many others cancer has touched my life in several very personal ways.

    I had a long conversation with a good friend last night about God and how unfair it is to take a loving wife, mother, daughter, and sister from her family. While it doesn’t take the sting out of what you’re going through, my friend commented that she was happy for Susan that she has lived her life with a man who loves her so much. She has had the wonderful opportunity to have children. She knows that if she goes she will leave her children with an awesome father. Her children will get to remember a loving mother and wife. It doesn’t change the fact that being apart is hard. But I am glad that Susan has had such a wonderful life.

    I recently had an uncle go through major surgery/chemo for stomach cancer. My mom commented after seeing him in ICU that she was amazed that even with him in a drug induced comma his body knew to fight. Somehow our souls or our spirits or whatever you want to call it know that we must fight to stay with those we love.

    I am praying for you and your family and sending you all of the positive energy that I can. Be gentle with yourselves.

  82. Comment by Dan | 05.6.2008 | 7:16 am

    I am sorry to hear about the diagnosis. I wish your family the best in these impossibly hard times.

  83. Comment by M2 | 05.6.2008 | 7:17 am

    Lance Armstrong rocks!

    Keep fighting the good fight. Prayers of love and hope are all around you, Susan and your family. Win, Susan! Win!

  84. Comment by AlicesYellowPorsche | 05.6.2008 | 7:31 am

    That is freaking awesome!

  85. Comment by Barb | 05.6.2008 | 7:36 am

    I was sitting here this morning blog surfing and feeling sad because (ironically) my daughter took a terrible fall off of her bike last night. She broke her wrist and has to badly messed up knees and I just feel blue for her. On top of that, my mom called me about an hour ago to give me the latest bad prognosis report on my dear uncle, who is fighting a recurrence of multiple myeloma cancer, and things are bad.

    Then I found your blog and while I shed a few tears for all of you, I can’t feel bad for us anymore. I suppose everything is relative.

    Thank you for sharing your story and know that you’ve got friends in Cincinnati praying and pulling for you all. We know too many really good people fighting cancer these days (including my dad) and it just sucks. I have to say, however, that if Lance is with you, there has to be some magic working in your favor.

    Peace to all of you.

  86. Comment by Mrs. Coach | 05.6.2008 | 8:24 am

    WIN SUSAN!!
    RACE FOR THE CURE

    There is a 5k walk/run in support of those who have breast cancer at the Gateway mall in SLC. I’ve posted the link below. I think this would be a great way to support Susan (wearing your Pink Lemonade jersey).

    go to http://www.komenslc.org and clink the link for Race for the Cure.

  87. Comment by jenni | 05.6.2008 | 8:34 am

    I LOVE IT. I also love the person who is auctioning off the pink jersey on ebay with 100% going to your Italy trip.

    Let’s make hay while there’s sun…I want to donate to you guys- please tell us where to send. Use the money however you see fit.

  88. Comment by monkeywebb | 05.6.2008 | 8:46 am

    Although in many ways I couldn’t relate, Lance’s story inspired me both on the bike and off in the past. More recently I’ve been inspired by you, your wife, your words, and the community you’ve built.

    With hundreds of domestiques and now Lance as a primary Lieutenant there is only one thing left to do: Win, Susan.

  89. Comment by highwaymunky | 05.6.2008 | 9:01 am

    Awesome! Win Susan! Win!

  90. Comment by Kathy | 05.6.2008 | 9:03 am

    Where else, I ask you, where else on the Internet can people come together and quote Jesus Christ and the Dalai Lama? Road and mountain bikers alike accept a spin instructor, and even welcome limerick composers? You’ve created a wonderful blog community. Even Lance had to come and visit. We’re all united in our support of your family. Feel the love.

  91. Comment by Lucy | 05.6.2008 | 9:26 am

    My prayers are with you and your family. I had cancer many years ago. I also pray you will have friends and family who are by your side, encouraging you and supporting you, your wife and your children.

  92. Comment by fee | 05.6.2008 | 9:41 am

    Another South African fan rooting for you, Susan and the kids.

  93. Comment by Aunt ie Clara | 05.6.2008 | 9:48 am

    Lance, you are one heck of a guy … in many ways, but this photos of your with your heart felt wish for Susan is the Best!

    Susan, we are all thinking about you and your family … almost constantly. I’m sure that you and your family have shed many tears and know that our family has also. What a heart breaking experience to have … more than any words can express. We pray that Susan can be comfortable and be able to continue to enjoy every precious minute with her wonderfully loving children … and of course, you too Elden. (You truly are the best … always such a loving husband and father.) You will never know how very much we look up to both of you, your strength, your attitudes, and your awesome example of parenting … and sharing all this on fatcyclist.com. (Last Sunday we had our usual family dinner with our children that live close by and Crystle commented that Susan is such a good sport to let Elden take those photos of her … her cute personality still shines through even though she is going through so terribly much.)

    Know that we love you and your family so very much … and that families are eternal!!!

  94. Comment by Big Boned | 05.6.2008 | 9:58 am

    2:01 EST coming up…

  95. Comment by charliebrown | 05.6.2008 | 10:06 am

    Just wanted you both to know – not much to say in words that haven’t been said, but I’m thinking of you both, and the kids!

    Way to go Lance!

  96. Comment by bobbieh | 05.6.2008 | 10:06 am

    I just found your blog today (from The Pioneer Woman). Know I’m holding you and Susan in my heart ~ sending thoughts of comfort, strength and peace.
    Hugs ~

  97. Comment by dde | 05.6.2008 | 10:43 am

    This morning my daughter asked me whether Fatty’s wife’s name was Susan. Surprised, I asked her why she wanted to know. She said, “’cause Daddy has a screen saver that’s a picture of Lance holding up a “Win Susan” sign”.

    Now I have the same screen saver too.

    Your support network knows no boundaries. We LiveStrong for you, Susan, and your family.

  98. Comment by MAJ Mike | 05.6.2008 | 11:27 am

    More positive vibes your way…

  99. Comment by Flahute | 05.6.2008 | 11:28 am

    Okay … I may have to re-think some of what I’ve thought about Lance over the past few years …

    That’s really cool.

  100. Comment by Chris | 05.6.2008 | 11:49 am

    Susan and Elden,

    Having lost a family member in similar circumstances my only advice is cherish what you have now and live like its not there. Both of you and your children will be in my prayers. Best of luck and WIN SUSAN!

    Chris

  101. Comment by rexinsea | 05.6.2008 | 11:53 am

    Wow – no wonder Lance was named one of the 100 most influential in Newsweek this week. I remnain a Lance fan for his continued work and dedication. He is a model of what a sports hero should become.

    WIN!

  102. Comment by Denise | 05.6.2008 | 11:54 am

    That’s AWESOME!!

  103. Comment by Jon | 05.6.2008 | 12:31 pm

    Very touching!

  104. Comment by isela | 05.6.2008 | 12:44 pm

    I don’t want to sound corny as you do not know me and I don’t know you guys in person but your family has been in my mind and in our family’s prayer all weekend. Win Susan, win!

  105. Comment by Sharon | 05.6.2008 | 12:56 pm

    I have been following your blog for a while and the last few have touched me. My prayers are with you guys. Like others who have posted, I too wear a Livestrong bracelet. I put on it because I lost my father to cancer and my mother-in-law. I wanted to show support for any and all who are battling this horrible disease. I still wear it and today I proudly wear it for Susan. Go Susan – WIN!!

  106. Comment by Richard | 05.6.2008 | 1:12 pm

    I got to meet and talk to Lance in Denver and I found him to be a very down to earth person. Besides being a nice human being, he is genuinely committed to fighting cancer.

    Susan, keep up the fight–we are there with you

  107. Comment by Amanda | 05.6.2008 | 1:31 pm

    I’m no Lance Armstrong but here it goes none the less – I’m a regular blog reader but never, ever post comments. Today I post my first. I haven’t read your blog in over a week and just had the opportunity to catch up today. As is too often the case, cancer has touched my life as well. Not nearly as closely as your own, but still the tragedy is there. My heart breaks for your family. Susan and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. Lance said it better than I — Win, Susan!

  108. Comment by Big Mike In Oz | 05.6.2008 | 2:03 pm

    He may have all his hair, but you’ve got all your nuts.

    Honourable gesture. And sincere if the stories are true.

  109. Comment by Gillian | 05.6.2008 | 2:44 pm

    Win Susan. May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

  110. Comment by This simple life | 05.6.2008 | 2:45 pm

    Way Cool! I hope you make that a screen saver.

  111. Comment by Eugie Baange | 05.6.2008 | 2:51 pm

    Can’t post what I wanted to (I’m “posting too fast”????) so I’ll just say “Just win, baby”

  112. Comment by BOSSY | 05.6.2008 | 3:13 pm

    Best best wishes for your family from Bossy in the blogosphere. Truly.

  113. Comment by roninaustin | 05.6.2008 | 3:25 pm

    Susan,

    Unity is Strength, [we are all here for you]
    Knowledge is Power, [don't accept a NO answer]
    Attitude is Everything! [you have it girl]

    This is powerful and it will help you climb your mountain.

    ‘don’t give up, don’t ever give up ‘ – Jimmy V. – and as Lance said so simply, WIN Susan!

  114. Comment by Danny | 05.6.2008 | 3:28 pm

    May God bless you and Susan, and LA too!

  115. Comment by Bush Babe | 05.6.2008 | 3:40 pm

    New reader here (from P Dub) and sending massive hugs and healing across the oceans in your time of need. I comprehend the mountain you currently face and wish you strength and love as you scale it.

    You sound like you have a wonderful family unit – hold tight!

    BB

  116. Comment by geckonia | 05.6.2008 | 4:03 pm

    Woah! Now that’s a cool bit of email you got there. Right on! Win Susan!

  117. Comment by Bitter (formerly known as Lissee) | 05.6.2008 | 4:21 pm

    That was very sweet Lance!

    Fatty-I’ve been off-line for the past few days and just caught up on your blog. I’m soooo sorry to hear the new news and my hopes and prayers are with you.

    After following your blog for the past three years, I feel like you’re family my heart hurts for you all. I hope that the peace you experienced on your ride yesterday will stay with you.

    -Lissee

  118. Comment by Bitter (formerly known as Lissee) | 05.6.2008 | 4:22 pm

    Big Mike, you make me laugh! :)

  119. Comment by Patty | 05.6.2008 | 4:52 pm

    Sending you my thoughts and prayers. I am so saddened by what Susan is going through right now, but keeping you in my prayers.
    Seeing this picture touched me; just another example of people how are pulling for you!
    Sending love and hope,
    Patty

  120. Comment by Kenny's neice | 05.6.2008 | 5:22 pm

    Now it makes you wonder if he read your blog…

    That would be kind of awsome.

  121. Comment by Pinkbike (again) | 05.6.2008 | 5:57 pm

    Woohoo! Lance Armstrong as your domestique? Gotta love that, Susan! (He’s the real deal and I wonder how many thousands of us cancer folk he’s given hope and inspiration to?!)

    Anyway you go girl, and to Lance’s “Win Susan” I would add:

    KICK BUTT.

    Love, peace and strength to you and Elden.

  122. Comment by hobgoblin | 05.6.2008 | 6:21 pm

    That is an awesomely cool message. A little over a year ago, when my dad was dealing with a grade IV GBM, Lance’s book helped him and my stepmom deal with the pain and fear of the inevitable.

    Peace to you and Susan, Elden. I’m sending my best thoughts your way.

  123. Comment by Mary | 05.6.2008 | 7:41 pm

    Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

  124. Comment by Paul | 05.6.2008 | 7:52 pm

    Susan & Fatty:
    So cool that Lance weighed in. WIN, Susan, indeed!! Thoughts & prayers for you both and the kids. I’m #123 post, can you imagine the face of each person saying, Go, Susan…WIN! The love I’m sensing is amazing.

  125. Comment by Sherry | 05.6.2008 | 7:55 pm

    You all will be in my prayers in the days ahead. May God bless you all.

  126. Comment by Camille | 05.6.2008 | 9:56 pm

    I love that you are strong enough to share with the world the love you have for your family and the trials you are going through. Many of us in cyber world are learning and being touched by your story. Your children are lucky to have such wonderful parents. I cannot imagine the thoughts/fears/hope that is constantly on your mind and wish you only the best. Your family is in my prayers. I hope that Mother’s Day is the best day in the world for you all.

  127. Comment by Alex | 05.7.2008 | 12:04 am

    I don’t have the words other than to say, thanks for sharing, it makes all of us winners.

    My thoughts are with you.

  128. Comment by Andy | 05.7.2008 | 4:26 am

    That was a great thing LA did. Your in my thoughts and prayers Fatty.
    WIN SUSAN!!!

  129. Comment by nathan | 05.7.2008 | 5:04 am

    Win

  130. Comment by drKim | 05.7.2008 | 5:54 am

    So many people are in this fight right along with you. Fight hard, WIN, and reflect on the lovely things you’ve seen along the way. The journey is the race. I am hoping for miracles. They can happen.

  131. Comment by Bryan (not that one) | 05.7.2008 | 6:28 am

    Bravo Lance!!! Win Susan!!!

  132. Comment by Tina C | 05.7.2008 | 6:54 am

    That is totally awesome!!! Win Susan!

  133. Comment by RoadRage | 05.7.2008 | 6:56 am

    While I continue to pray for a miracle for your family everyday, I wanted to share this link. It helped my aunt and our family a few years ago and I hope it might help you and yours.

    http://www.estatevaults.com/bol/archives/2008/05/06/when_death_is_n.html

    WIN Susan

  134. Comment by Charlotte | 05.7.2008 | 7:01 am

    Win Susan x

  135. Comment by Makita | 05.7.2008 | 7:16 am

    Awesome! Win Susan!! Win!

  136. Comment by DT | 05.7.2008 | 7:27 am

    LIVESTRONG and WIN, Susan!

  137. Comment by Tania | 05.7.2008 | 8:26 am

    I’ve only been reading your site for 10 minutes but your stories have moved me. I’ll make sure I add your family to my prayers!

  138. Comment by The D | 05.7.2008 | 8:27 am

    Elden and Susan,

    The Lance pic spurred me to join in what many have more eloquently stated for days.

    1) Please WIN, Susan

    2) I hope you can draw some strength from the knowledge that by just doing what you do, you both make life better for innumerable total strangers. That’s true of only very few people. See, you’ve had practice beating the odds, just by being you! I hope and pray that this translates into beating the medical odds as well.

  139. Comment by Carl | 05.7.2008 | 9:08 am

    This was so cool that Lance took the time to send a personal message to Susan. I’m reminded however by my girlfriend, who lost both parents to cancer when they were about 50 years old, that it is hard on people emotionally enough to battle cancer, but it is compounded by well meaning people who keep telling them to win. I hope Susan doesn’t get the impression she has failed because of the doctor’s prognosis? We are praying for Susan and her family daily, but she has already won, because she has a loving family at her side and that is something more than a lot of people ever have in life.

  140. Comment by The D | 05.7.2008 | 11:33 am

    Carl,

    You make a good point. However, I think most people mean “win” as in “win the lottery.” Not “win” as in “win the wrestling match.”

    We all know, unfortunately sometimes by experience, that a medical prognosis of this magnitude has nothing to do with determination or decency or grace or any of wonderful human traits we see in our loved ones.

    Winning against this prognosis has everything to do with blind luck, and we all wish plenty of the good kind to Elden and Susan.

  141. Comment by JKRunning | 05.7.2008 | 12:52 pm

    This is why I will continue to praise his efforts to anyone who will listen. I get tired of people judging him because of a failed marriage instead of all the good he has done.
    What a wonderful thing the cherish.

  142. Comment by David Belden | 05.7.2008 | 8:21 pm

    Elden and Susan,

    I was reminded of your site by Snake and Big Johnny over at DrunkCyclist.com and when I read what’s been going on, I was very sorry to hear that cancer had entered your lives! Elden, we actually met at Leadville in ‘05(?) I was one of the riders you interviewed for your CyclingNews article. I believe we spoke as we climbed the bottom half of the Columbine Mine climb. I too received an unexpected personal letter from Lance when I was going through chemo, and wow was I impressed, touched, and inspired. But over time what impressed me even more was the support from friends and loved ones who were there day in and day out, like you, Elden, clearly are. I think Lance has and will continue to inspire cancer survivors around the world, but it’s the lesser known friends & supporters who deserve even more credit. I’ve been cancer free for 6 years now, and I’m sending my best to the both of you! But it’s hard to beat Lance’s message! Susan, Win!

    I also read a note in my oncologists office last week (yearly check-up) that said, “It’s not the number of years, but the quality of the years that matters.” I couldn’t agree more.

    Best to you both!
    David

  143. Comment by Rant | 05.8.2008 | 5:09 am

    Fatty and Susan,

    That’s one very classy thing Lance did. Keep fighting!

    - Daniel M. a/k/a Rant

  144. Comment by Maria | 05.8.2008 | 8:37 am

    I just learned of your site from Caloi Rider. Not only is it very cool that you received a message from Lance, but Susan’s fight is both courageous and inspiring. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. And Susan, keep up the fight and WIN! WIN SUSAN!

  145. Comment by Wine Dog | 05.8.2008 | 6:32 pm

    Yes.

    Win
    Susan

  146. Comment by Emily | 05.9.2008 | 4:48 pm

    My thoughts and prayers are with you. Miracles are real and they do happen TODAY. Not just in the bible. My hubby suffered a major stroke that left him paralyzed on his left side. He was healed by God. July 7, 2006. He literally went from the hospital bed not able to move his left side, and stood up and walked. He is fully recovered. the doctors couldn’t explain anything but a miracle! BELIEVE that Susan will be healed. Keep positive people around you and around her. I had to take on the neurologist for my husband who told me there was death in his body, I looked right at him and said, “there is no death in my husbands body” I know I sound like a crazy christian… but this is what happened. I know your time is precious – but I have told the story on our blog. http://www.hoboyoung.blogspot.com it is under the June/July 2006 archives, if you would like a positive thing to read.

    I am praying for full healing for Susan.

    Emily

  147. Comment by Abi | 05.14.2008 | 1:43 am

    Hello Elden,

    I found your website for the first time tonight. After I had a good bawl I did something I haven’t done in a very long time, I prayed/wished/thought really hard for good things to happen to Susan and your family.

    I hope you felt it. That sounds cheesey maybe… I just mean that I hope all this positive energy we’re all sending is working. For health and for comfort.

  148. Comment by jody | 05.15.2008 | 11:46 am

    This moved me to tears.

    You go Susan! Win indeed!!!!

 

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