There have been several posts dealing with Ted Kennedy's situation and it is often mentioned that he is a "fighter." While this trope is common and those who have not succumbed are often celebrated as "survivors" in a manner that suggests living is an accomplishment dependent on determination, and a fighting spirit, there is no scientific evidence to support this view. By the same token, those that do not survive have not died because they lacked certain personal qualities. Anecdotal evidence abounds, but cannot substitute for carefully controlled research.
Cancer is an illness, not a sporting event and and one's outcome is not a matter of character, bravery or any personality trait. Rather, it depends on the nature of the cancer, its stage and grade, whether adequate treatment is available and whether one can afford it and is willing to have it. Having a positive attitude has never been demonstrated to increase longevity, nor does attendance at support group meetings, prayer etc. Moreover, much research has shown that people have fairly stable moods and that while bad news (e.g., a cancer diagnosis) can make someone temporarily take a nosedive into a dark state of mind, unless this has been a pre-existing characteritic it will dissipate in a relatively short time.
As someone who has had cancer in the past and may well have it again I have problems with the notion that it should be thought of as a special category in which the victim's nature should be examined in a way we don't do for people who have heart disease or any other potentially fatal malady.