Family says Swayze is determined, hopeful

LOS ANGELES, March 12 (UPI) -- Patrick Swayze's family and friends said the Hollywood actor is staying strong in his battle against pancreatic cancer.

Swayze, 55, is best known for his roles in "The Outsiders," "Dirty Dancing," "Ghost" and "Road House." It was announced last week that he was undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.

"I've never seen him scared of anything." his sister-in-law Maria Haapaniemi told Us Weekly magazine. "He deals with everything the same way. He's determined, enthusiastic, full of energy and hope. ... We appreciate the love that's coming back to Patrick from all his fans."

"He is what we would like America to be," his longtime acting coach Milton Katselas told the magazine. "He is that wholesome, that alive -- healthy, vigorous, honest. ...If anybody can beat the odds, it's Patrick. He's going to end up inspiring us all."