Ailing Farrah in a “Panic” Over False Reports: Pal

Farrah Fawcett has been in a "panic" over false claims that she's on her deathbed -- but the hospitalized star is using her sense of humor as a secret weapon in her battle against cancer, according to close friends.

Fawcett, 62, is expected to be released from a Los Angeles area facility within days after undergoing treatment for internal bleeding, her friends say.

"I've never seen anyone fight for their life like this," friend Alana Stewart told People.

Stewart, also co-producer of the star's documentary about her battle with cancer, said Fawcett is hurt by false claims that she is near death.

"Farrah is not in a coma and she's never been unconscious," Stewart told the magazine. "It's unconscionable for these things to be put out. It's so tremendously hurtful to Farrah. It's put her in a panic. But Farrah's spirit is incredible." 

The "Charlie's Angel" star was first diagnosed with cancer in 2006, and a source close to the actress said the cancer had spread to her liver. Fawcett's physician, Dr. Lawrence Piro, said she is an "amazing patient."

"All people who face cancer are brave," he told People, "but Farrah has been especially brave because she has had to battle two burdens at the same time. One is the burden of cancer. The other is the burden of going through the cancer in a very public way. Throughout, Farrah has used something which is a masterful gift of hers, and that's her humor. And positive thinking." 

One person close to the actress said that the cancer had spread to her liver.

"She's in for a procedure, she'll be out," longtime boyfriend Ryan O'Neal said Monday. "This is not at death's door."

"Pray for her. That's all I can say," he said.

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