Testicular cancer photo

Fashion savvy crazy for Armstrong cancer bands

A $1 Lance Armstrong bracelet sold at sports stores to benefit cancer research has become one of the hottest fashion trends this summer.

The bright yellow bands have been popping up on everyone from Matt Damon to Roger Clemens; John Kerry even wore one the night he accepted the Democratic nomination for president.

"We were confident that the first 5 million would sell," said Michelle Milford of the Lance Armstrong Foundation. "What it has turned into has been very gratifying."

About 8 million of the bracelets have been purchased and the overwhelming demand has left NikeTown stores in Boston and New York sold-out for nearly a month.

"It has made its way into pop culture, but people have been very clear about why they are wearing it," said Milford, adding that about one-third of U.S. residents will be affected by cancer.

Armstrong, a six-time Tour de France winner, is a survivor of testicular cancer. His foundation promotes cancer awareness and all proceeds from the sale of the bands go to cancer research.

Some people, however, are using the bracelets' popularity for their own profit. Some bands have been put up for sale on eBay.com, where bids have gone as high as $28.

"We don't assign motive for why a buyer buys or a seller sells something," said eBay spokesperson Hani Dursey.

Caption: BANDING TOGETHER: Celebs such as Matt Damon, right, with Ben Affleck, are among those who have been spotted wearing Lance Armstrong bracelets that support cancer research. AP photo

Caption: WEAR AND CARE: Emily Rovenko of Allston shows off her yellow `LiveStrong' band. Staff photo by Tara Bricking