Photo: Lance Armstrong on the cover of Chicago Athlete's September 2003 issue.

Six time Tour de France winner and cancer survivor, Lance Armstrong is partnering with Bristol-Myers Squibb and the team of 20 cyclists, chosen from the cancer community, for a week-long journey across America to help speed the search for a cure. Along the way from Los Angeles to Washington, DC, from October 1 to October 9, the Team will share their stories, motivate communities, and encourage people to make the Promise -- a personal commitment to learn more about cancer and clinical trials.

To celebrate their arrival, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University and the University of Chicago Cancer Research Center are hosting a FREE outdoor health festival and community rally at Block 37 (on State St, between Washington and Randolph). The fun kicks-off at 12 noon with a health festival featuring local musicians and entertainment the whole family will enjoy.

The program begins at 3:30 pm when Lance and members of the Team share their personal stories and encourage the community to learn about the benefits of cancer research. Their message is clear: more participants today, will lead to more hope, more medicines, and more cures.

Also, Bokoo Bikes (in Marshall Field's store) is a sponsor of the tour will have the official Tour of Hope bike on display and will be selling Tour of Hope jerseys and Live Strong wrist bands.

For more information about the Bristol-Myers Squibb Tour of Hope and their Chicago visit, check out www.tourofhope.org.