Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy teamed up with cyclist and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong Thursday in a Senate hearing to draw attention to a new push in what he called a "war on cancer."

VideoArmstrong, Edwards Testify

Calling the seven-time Tour de France winner "a true champion of will and determination," Kennedy said the Texan "has changed the way people see cancer patients."

He also lavished praise on two other invited speakers, breast cancer survivor Elizabeth Edwards, wife of former Sen. John Edwards, and AOL founder Steve Case, who has spearheaded a nonprofit group's anti-cancer work.

Dr. Edward Benz, of Boston's Dana Farber Cancer Institute, also testified Thursday.

Kennedy announced legislation he intended to file soon to encourage more coordination of cancer research, prevention and treatment. The legislation also would give more money to the National Cancer Institute and other public research agencies.

Kennedy said it was a mistake to emphasize one cancer over another in the search for breakthroughs against the disease.