Swayze Thanks Fans for "Good Thoughts"

Actor and wife "thrilled and grateful" he's responding to cancer treatment

By Natalie Finn Apr 09, 2008 12:10 AMTags

Patrick Swayze—and, even more importantly, his doctor—continues to look on the bright side. 

In a statement released Tuesday, the actor and his wife thanked fans for their ongoing support as he undergoes treatment for pancreatic cancer. 

"We're thrilled and grateful for the positive response Patrick has shown towards his treatment," Swayze and Lisa Niemi, who's been married to the Dirty Dancing star for 32 years, said in a statement to People

"Also, we can't help but feel that all the prayers, meditations and good thoughts sent his way by everyone has made a difference. Thank you!" 

Word got out about a month ago that the 55-year-old actor and classically trained dancer was seriously ill, but both Swayze's family and his doctor were quick to refute reports that his condition was hopeless. 

"Patrick Swayze continues to respond well to his treatment for pancreatic cancer," his personal physician, Dr. George Fisher, said Tuesday. "Because of his excellent response, he will continue the same therapy at Stanford [University Medical Center]."