Patrick Swayze Dies at the age of 57
Star of Dirty Dancing, Ghost Passes Away from Pancreatic Cancer
Sep 14, 2009
Patrick Swayze, actor phenomenon known best for his role in the 1987 role in Dirty Dancing, was reported in USA Today by Susan Wloszczyna as having passed away from pancreatic cancer, which he has battled since January of 2008. In the article “Dirty Dancing Star Patrick Swayze dies at 57”, Swayze was said to have spent his final moments with his family by his side.
Patrick Swayze’s Rise to Stardom
In 1987, little known Swayze dominated film screens with his dynamic role in Dirty Dancing, alongside co-star Jennifer Grey. “Nobody puts baby in a corner” quickly became a household relic. Besides Dirty Dancing, Swayze’s popularity skyrocketed even more for his back-side baring role in the 1989 movie Road House. Quickly becoming a household staple, in 1990 Swayze reached into every heart in America with his tear-jerking role in Ghost, alongside co-star Demi Moore.
Other famous roles that Swayze played was the mini-series titled "North and South", a 1990 "Saturday Night Live" skit with the late Chris Farley, and an animated voice-over in the 1981 Disney film Fox and the Hound 2. He was also successful on Broadway in the 2003 production of Chicago, as well as starring in a role in Guys and Dolls on stage in London in 2006.
Patrick Swayze’s Battle with Family, Pancreatic Cancer
According to Wloszczyna, Swayze lost his father in 1982 to a heart attack, and his sister in 1994 to suicide. Swayze’s battle with alcohol coupled with his family losses led to a visit to rehab, resulting in the choice to settle into a rancher’s lifestyle.
Diagnosed in January 2008 with pancreatic cancer, Swayze acknowledged that the time he had left would be precious and short. According to Wloszczyna, pancreatic cancer is “a virulent illness that usually kills 95% of its victims within five years.” Because diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is not always immediate due to its lack of symptoms, the disease can have ample time to fester in the body, leading to lower chances of remission.
In an interview with Barbara Walters, Swayze predicted that his life-span would probably be closer to two years. After 20 months of battling the cancer, Swayze’s calculation happened to be chillingly close.
Patrick Swayze’s Support System
Swayze’s wife, Lisa Niemi, has publicly supported Swayze since his diagnosis became public. Other family members, such as his brother, were reported as having cared for him by blending meals for him to make it easier to consume during the hardest parts of the battle.
Truly representing what a popular icon can become in everyday households, Patrick Swayze’s fame and dedication will live on.
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