On Monday, esteemed South Carolinian author Pat Conroy promised fans a new book, saying that he owed it to himself and his readers. The promise came as part of a larger announcement regarding the 70-year-old writer's recent pancreatic cancer diagnosis — a diagnosis that is considered one of the deadliest cancers, and is certainly one that is difficult to treat.
This isn't the first time Conroy, a diabetic, has made headlines for his health. The Associated Press reports that the writer was hospitalized several years ago for liver failure and high blood pressure, and that he gave up drinking to preserve his health. Conroy says he "intend[s] to fight hard," and names the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center as part of his treatment plan.
Conroy opens his Facebook announcement with a declaration: "I've spent my whole writing life trying to find out who I am and I don't believe I've even come close." The author says he "intends to deliver" a novel to his readership, friends, and family, who have supported him in this difficult time.
Conroy is the author of several books, including The Water Is Wide, The Great Santini, and The Prince of Tides.
