Lisa Niemi Swayze continues to feel the presence of her late husband, Patrick Swayze, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2009 at 57.
She is raising awareness about pancreatic cancer through the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and supports events like the PurpleStride fundraising walk.
Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi married in 1975 and spent 34 years together.
He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in late 2007, and his illness shocked the world.
Lisa Niemi Swayze is a realistic optimist who fought alongside her husband and cherished every moment together.
Patrick Swayze preferred to keep his battle with cancer private but continued working during his treatment.
The attention that his diagnosis brought to pancreatic cancer highlighted the need for greater awareness and early detection.
She advises caregivers to take care of themselves and seek support from others in similar situations.