After 20 months of battling with pancreatic cancer, actor Patrick Swayze has finally succumbed to the disease at the age of 57. Patrick’s publicist Annett Wolf issued a statement Monday afternoon stating that the actor had passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Patrick’s stubborn and relentless fight against cancer pushed his body and spirit to the limits. As the illness and it’s devastating treatments took it’s toll on Patrick’s physical condition, his resolve and persistent love for life gave him strength to persevere.
With the support of his wife Lisa Niemi and brother Donnie, Swayze refused to let cancer keep him from living, loving and even working, as he starred in A & E’s TV show “The Beast,” and worked 12 hour workdays on set despite his sickness. As an actor over the past 3 decades, he amazed audiences with his range of talent, from dancing to fighting to making the ladies swoon. However, it was his kindness and compassion off screen, and his love and gratitude for the people in his life and the talents he was given that truly defines Swayze. He will be remembered as a remarkable performer and true inspiration, refusing to stop loving life in the face of adversity and affliction. R.I.P. Patrick!