Six-time PGA TOUR winner Steve Pate, who represented the United States in two Ryder Cups, has confirmed he is being treated for cancer at UCLA Medical Center.

Pate was battling a difficult cough in March during the PGA TOUR Champions’ James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Boca Raton, Florida. Following the tournament, Pate was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the lungs. The 64-year-old was subsequently forced to withdraw from the Regions Tradition and Senior PGA Championship last month. He began chemotherapy treatment on June 13 at UCLA under the guidance of Dr. Edward Garon.

“I want all of my friends and fans to know that I am going to dig in and fight this with the same tenacity I played with throughout my career,” said Pate. "The golf community is incredibly close-knit, and it’s amazing how much I miss everyone at a time like this. The love and support from my friends and entire family, especially my grandchildren, inspire me to enjoy every moment and remain optimistic.”