Patrick Swayze, 55, and his wife of 23 years, Lisa Niemi, 52, were spotted out together at a Lakers playoff game in LA on Friday. It was Swayze’s first public appearance since he announced his diagnosis and treatment for pancreatic cancer in March. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly cancers.

Swayze gave a statement to People Magazine that shows how he’s enjoying life and is responding well to treatment:

“Thought I’d give you guys a little update. Lisa and I have been back and forth from New Mexico enjoying the arrival of spring and new baby calves. This past weekend, we spent a fun time with friends in Reno for Lisa’s birthday, where I took her jewelry shopping at Kenny G & Company and (we) were able to find her something really special and much deserved! In the meantime, I am continuing treatment at Stanford and the great news is I continue to respond well.”

[From People.com]

When we mentioned Patrick on Monday, we also included a video clip of the popular “Last Lecture” given by Carnegie Mellon professor and pancreatic sufferer, Randy Pausch. Dr. Pausch is an inspiration for his candid advice, his outspoken nature, and his realistic but positive outlook on his prognosis. He says that he has just months to live, but like Patrick Swayze, Pausch is living his life and cherishing his family while he can. You can see his status and updates on his blog.

Yesterday I learned that a friend of mine from the states had died in a tragic accident over the weekend. Before I heard this news, I read the very sad and moving statement from Xzibit about the loss of his premature son. This comes after the terrible human loss and tragedies in China and Myanmar, which have been very much on my mind. I would like to post Xzibit’s statement here because I found his words very meaningful and they bring tears to my eyes:

AS you all know, I shared with you the announcment of my newborn son Xavier Kingston Joiner on may 15th and also informed you that he was born prematurly. well this week was extremly difficult for him because his lungs were not strong enough to handle regular oxygen on his own. Xavier passed away this morning at 3:30am and I must tell you this, It is unatural for a parent to bury a child. I am telling you this because of the same reason I tell you when im having great times, life is too short to be fake. Hold on to your kids if you have them, protect them and show them you love them everyday you wake up and see them, dont take a second you get to hug them teach them and care for them for granted. You can have all the material wealth in the universe but it is NOTHING compared to having your family. I am thankful for all of my blessings and im not one to question God’s perfect plan, so I leave you with great love and thanks for the love that was sent earlier on my pervious blog to my son. Of course I need to take some time and handle my loss, STAY FOCUSED PEOPLE. Its not promised to any of us.

[From Xzibit’s myspace via Celebrity Baby Scoop]

I’m not a religious person and would consider myself agnostic, but things like this make me think of God and what’s in store for us. Hang in there Patrick Swayze and Dr. Pausch. Hang in there everyone, and cherish your families because no day is promised to us or the ones we love.