Kaylah Walton
Actor James Van Der Beek, 46, best known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, recently announced a serious health diagnosis: he has been identified with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
A few days ago, he took to social media to share his diagnosis and emphasized the importance of early detection, especially considering this illness is becoming more prevalent among individuals under 55 years old. He is also implementing immediate changes to his lifestyle habits.
“This is why I chose to discuss it openly,” he expressed in an interview with People magazine.
“I’ve been handling this for a while. Sharing my journey publicly has been beneficial and therapeutic,” he added, speaking from his ranch in Texas, where he lives with his wife Kimberly, 42, and their six children: Olivia, 14; Joshua, 12; Annabel, 10; Emilia, 8; Gwen, 6; and Jeremiah, 3.
“I’ve gained significant support by being open about this. More importantly, I hope to raise awareness,” he noted. He never expected to confront such a frightening diagnosis, primarily given his healthy lifestyle and no family history of cancer.
“I used to think cancer was associated with older age and unhealthy living. I felt fit and tried to maintain a healthy diet,” he explained.
How was James Van Der Beek diagnosed with cancer?
During the summer of 2023, James began to notice changes in his bowel habits and attributed it to dietary issues.
“I considered cutting back on coffee or altering my cream intake. When that didn’t help, I decided it was time for a medical assessment,” he recounted.
Post-colonoscopy, he was initially calm but swiftly received the shocking news from his gastroenterologist: “I think I went into shock,” he recalled.
James immediately began undergoing standard cancer treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy. While he refrained from sharing specific details about his treatment regimen, he mentioned it encompasses a holistic approach focusing on his body, mind, and spirit: “I saw this as either a chance to escape my body or a lesson to truly embrace it.”
He acknowledged maintaining a positive outlook, yet struggles with the uncertainties that cancer brings:
“The biggest challenge is the unknowns that come with cancer,” he mentioned. “Thoughts like, ‘How can I beat this? Is it working? Will it recur?’ are tough for someone who values clear answers.”
As for his wellness, James is hesitant to define his recovery stage but reassures that he feels well overall.
“I remain cautiously optimistic. I’m in a healing phase and have high energy. Once I’ve fully recovered, I’ll provide an update,” he shared, emphasizing, “I have much to live for.”
The American Cancer Society reports that one out of five new colorectal cancer cases now affects people younger than 55, an increase from one in ten in 1995.
