Patrick SwayzePatrick Swayze has said he’s sure the positive public support he’s received over the last month has helped him in his fight against cancer.

Patrick was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in late January but the news only became public at the start of last month. Initial reports gave him just months to live but his doctor insisted he was responding well to treatment - and now Patrick and his wife Lisa Niemi have said that he is continuing to fight.

In a statement issued yesterday, the couple said: “We’re thrilled and grateful for the positive response Patrick has shown towards his treatment.”

“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!”

His doctor, Dr George Fisher, added: “Patrick Swayze continues to respond well to his treatment for pancreatic cancer. Because of his excellent response, he will continue the same therapy at Stanford.”

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly forms of the disease as it is frequently not detected until it has spread to other parts of the body. Only around 5% of people with the most common form of the disease survive for five years after diagnosis. Patrick is said to have been undergoing an experimental form of chemotherapy therapy in an effort to beat the illness.