Tulsa Cancer Survivor Raises Awareness Like Lance

By Rick Wells, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- A diagnosis of cancer can be devastating, especially for a child. Anthony Varney was one child who received that diagnosis. He is now a student at The University of Tulsa, and he has chosen to use his diagnosis to inspire others.

Lance Armstrong has inspired many people. His personal battle with cancer and his cycling success have lead many cancer survivors and others to live longer and stronger.

"People would treat me differently," said Anthony Varney, cancer survivor.

Anthony Varney a business major in the Collins School of Business at the University of Tulsa. At age 6 he was diagnosed with colon cancer and underwent two surgeries: one to remove and one to rebuild his large intestine.

Now at age 20, he's a survivor, and life's pretty normal.

"As normal as I could be - athletically and physically I can be just as normal as anybody else," Varney said.

He watched Lance Armstrong in the Tour de France in 2005. Armstrong and cycling became his motivation to use his own cancer experience for good.

"What can I use it for, to help people not have to go through the same thing I did," Varney said.

Since he's become an avid rider, The News On 6 asked him to ride a little.

Out on the street we talked about a high school project back home in New Hampshire - a fundraising bike ride he called Pave the Way.

"I wanted to create something bigger and show people I could do it," said Anthony Varney, a TU student and survivor of cancer in childhood.

He did. He raised several thousand dollars, and the proceeds went to the Lance Armstrong Foundation. He'd like to resurrect the Pave the Way idea here in Tulsa before he graduates.

In the meantime, Varney doesn't let his cancer experience rule his life.

"Just enjoy life; enjoy what you've been given and go with it," he said.

Anthony is riding with the Sound Pony team this weekend at the Salty Cow Extravaganza near Mannford.