Sep 16 2009
Pancreatic Cancer Kills Patrick Swayze
Few stories have so moved the American public during the past year than Patrick Swayze’s determined struggle for survival.
Most people recognized that his battle was futile in the long run; but his fight for life inspired us all. When faced with a terminal illness, his powerful, “never give up” attitude showed his mettle. His wife stood by him. To be strong and patient for another person during a lengthy battle with cancer takes a lot of mettle as well. She inspires me too. I wish her strength as she grieves in the months ahead.
At age 57, Patrick Swayze was just five years younger than I am. To realize our mortality is to come to terms with life itself. Our value system comes into question as we acknowledge that we must live our lives to the fullest extent possible; for, in the end, what we leave behind are the memories of ourselves that other people carry with them. Fond memories of our lives together, of times shared, of moments treasured; these are the best gifts that we leave to others.
I enjoyed Patrick Swayze’s movies. Point Break and Roadhouse are still fun to watch. Dirty Dancing was pretty cheezy but we still liked it. The concept behind Ghost was endearing. The pottery wheel scene with Demi Moore and Patrick tore my heart out and watered my eyes. I may have to buy a DVD of Ghost just to honor him.
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Very well said.