In a world where mega-stars seem to come and go like the wind, Patrick Swayze was one of those stars who was permanently entrenched from the moment his star rose to fame in 1987’s Dirty Dancing. He was a star who transcended pop culture. His star was bright and nobody ever could put their finger exactly on why. Now, he is gone from the world after a tragic battle with pancreatic cancer. Patrick Swayze will not, however, be soon forgotten. He was too powerful for that as an actor, person and ultimately as an advocate for cancer research.
Swayze was everywhere in the late eighties. There were few women who were not in love with him, and there were few men who did not wish to be like him. I was an impressionable 18 year old that was looking for a new outlet. I had always loved dancing, and Swayze led me to dive in full force. There was something about his character in Dirty Dancing that made me want to go out and learn. And learn I did.
Swayze himself was struggling at times with the lights of Hollywood. He went on and did Ghost and Roadhouse, and his star shot to meteoric levels. The fame got to him much like it did many others in the acting business. Swayze was stronger than those problems, however. Alcoholism and other issues did not stop Swayze from becoming a better husband, person and role model to those around him. He kicked those bad habits, and opted for a better life. That shows real character and strength.
When Swayze was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer it seemed as though it were impossible. Swayze was the epitome of good health to all of his fans, myself included. It was puzzling to me how he could possibly be dying so young. Visions of him jumping off the stage, doing the Mambo, and beating up people in Roadhouse jumped into my mind. The initial shock wore off and it became clear that Swayze would pass away soon. The cancer was serious and very invasive.
Swayze then proceeded to handle the issue of cancer with the same strength that he always seemed to bring to his movie roles. Most importantly, he was not afraid to show that he was scared, and that is a credit to him. He acknowledged the fear he was feeling but he did not let it define his final days. One gets the feeling that Swayze was bigger than the cancer, and that it did not define his life or death.
Patrick Swayze will be remembered forever, and it will not only be because of the great movie roles that he played. Swayze will be remembered for his class, dignity and incredible courage in the face of a disease that is as insidious as they come. Patrick Swayze is still one of my heroes. Rest in peace, and God bless you Patrick. You will be missed.
