NASCAR legend Parsons says he is cancer-free

CONCORD, N.C. -- Benny Parsons, the 1973 Cup champion-turned NBC/TNT broadcaster, said Friday at Lowe's Motor Speedway that he is now cancer-free.

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"Three months ago my family doctor called me into his office and told me I had lung cancer," Parsons said. "So Rick Hendrick told me if I was going to fight cancer, you have to get [oncologist Steven A.] Limentani. He helped Rick through his leukemia 10 years ago. So we did.

"The last three months we have been battling the disease. Then Wednesday, I had a scan and [Limentani] called me Wednesday afternoon with the best news: 'The cancer is gone ... see ya.'"

Parsons spoke at a gathering naming him as the honorary millionth member of the Lowe's Racing Fan Club.

Lowe's also made a $10,000 donation in Parsons' name to the Blumenthal Cancer Center in Charlotte N.C., which played a key role in helping Parsons in his fight. Limentani attended Friday's ceremony and accepted the check on behalf of the center.

"Benny is one of my heroes," said Lowe's driver Jimmie Johnson, who along with Hendrick joined Parsons at the event. "I've gotten to know him over the years and I am glad to call him my friend."