Pat Conroy diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, says "I intend to fight."

Author Pat Conroy attends a benefit reading for actor Frank Muller at Town Hall February 2, 2002 in New York City.  (Photo by Jeffrey Vock/Getty Images)

Beloved author Pat Conroy, whose muscular, vivid prose has brought to life the storied streets of historic Charleston, the punishing rigor of a military academy much like his alma mater The Citadel and his own troubled childhood, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He tells his fans he's ready for a fight.

He went to Facebook to tell his fans about his diagnosis.

His publisher Doubleday went to Twitter to send their thoughts to the writer.

Conroy is known for his books "The Great Santini and "The Prince of Tides."