AS Newcastle United star Jonas Gutierrez reveals he is fighting testicular cancer, here are six sportsmen who overcame the disease:

 

1. Lance Armstrong

Armstrong is the most famous, and now the most notorious, athlete who has survived cancer. The cyclist completed the 1995 Tour de France but dropped out of the 1996 event for becoming ill. Months later, the 25-year-old was diagnosed with stage three (advanced) testicular cancer, which spread to his lungs, abdomen and brain. He underwent 12 weeks of chemotherapy. Three years later, Armstrong shocked the world and won his first of seven Tour de Frances titles in 1999.

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2. Alan Stubbs

Former Bolton, Everton and Celtic defender Stubbs was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1999. He recovered and played an important part in Celtic winning the title in 2000-01. After winning his battle with cancer he joined his boyhood club Everton. “I look at myself as very, very lucky,” he said.

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3. Jimmy White

In 1995, after a routine check-up with his doctor, White – one of snooker’s most popular figures ­- was diagnosed with testicular cancer. He was operated on almost immediately and soon after given the all clear. In a newspaper interview, he said: “If I hadn't casually mentioned it to my GP I wouldn't be speaking to you - or anyone - now.”

 

 

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4. Eric Shanteau

Eric Shanteau is an American swimmer who competed in the 2008 Olympics despite being diagnosed with testicular cancer the week before. With inspiration from his dad, a fellow cancer survivor, Shanteau posted a personal best time. After the Olympics, he opted to immediately undergo surgery and went on to break two US records in the 2009 World Championships in Rome. He was also in the 4x100m medley relay team that broke the world record. In 2012, he won an Olympic gold in the 4x100m medley relay. He is now cancer-free.

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5. Billy Mayfair

Mayfair is an American professional golfer with five career PGA Tour wins and three top-five finishes in Majors. In July 31, 2006, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent surgery just three days later. But, just two weeks later, Mayfair toughed it out once again and returned to play in the PGA Championship. He was only two strokes back through 36 holes. Mayfair still plays golf professionally and is now cancer-free.

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6. Scott Hamilton

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Hamilton is one of the most recognised male figure skating stars in the world. An Olympic Figure Skater for Team USA, Hamilton won 70 titles throughout his career. He captured the attention of the world in 1984 with his Olympic Gold medal performances in Sarajevo. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer at the height of his career in 1997 and went back on the ice straight after his 12 week treatment. He is now a leading campaigner and spokesman for cancer research.