Actor Patrick Swayze has responded to the media outlets that have been reporting his cancer has spread and that he is on the verge of dieing by letting everybody know that "It's a battle, and so far, I've been winning. I'm one of the lucky few that respond well to treatment." The “Ghost” star, 56, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year, fired back at claims he has been saying goodbye to members of his family by issuing a statement to PEOPLE Tuesday.

The rumors surfaced last week, with an unnamed source telling tabloids that the actor's cancer had spread to his liver and, even more morbidly, that doctors had begun the countdown to his death.

"The only thorn in my side…tabloids have been consistently reporting lies and false information about me and those close to me," he told People. "And latest, they're reporting that I'm on my last legs and saying goodbye to my tearful family!"
On the other hand the 56-year-old actor thanks everyone who's contributed positively, saying he appreciates "all the love and support people have sent and continue to send my way. I thank you."

Actually Swayze has finished filming “The Beast” in Chicago, where he has been putting in 12-hour days. He went to a party earlier this week to celebrate with Lisa, his wife of 33 years, and his brother Donny. He stayed for one-and-a-quarter hours sitting on a couch the entire time, happily talking to people. Swayze's wife "mingled a little more than Patrick did, leaving the couch to grab a drink or talk to people, but mostly she remained at his side" a source told the US magazine.

The Texas-born Swayze has starred in dozens of film, TV and stage roles. But he is best known for playing dance instructor Johnny Castle in the 1987 film "Dirty Dancing."