Because if a federal investigation finds that Armstrong has used performance-enhancing drugs, just as other probes have linked so many other athletes to steroids, then what do we tell the cancer patients who use him for inspiration, the people who stand along the road at the Tour de France and hold signs that say “Hope” and “Never Give Up!” and consider him a god? What about the millions who wear the yellow LIVESTRONG bracelets that have symbolized his mission against the disease he beat?

When you stoop so low as to try to bring Lance Armstrong’s fight against cancer and what people who suffer from it will think of him into an article about steroid use, it’s a telling display of a lack of class and character — neither of which Jay Mariotti would be accused of having much of.

When cancer patients and survivors are standing on the sides of roads with signs of “Hope” and “Never give up!” they’re likely thinking about and thanking a man who has used his position of celebrity and influence to create a foundation that brings awareness and has funneled millions of dollars for research to find a cure to a disease that affects far too many.

Lance Armstrong may have taken steroids. Or he may not have. I doubt anyone who’s been helped by his foundation cares much either way.