Van Der Beek revealed that he had intended to discuss his health status in detail with People magazine. However, his plans changed abruptly when a tabloid threatened to release the information prematurely. He stated that handling this diagnosis has been a personal journey, and he has been focusing on his health with renewed vigor. The actor mentioned that he is in a good place emotionally and physically and is optimistic about the future.
- Health Revelation Under Pressure: James Van Der Beek intended to disclose his health diagnosis with People magazine but was compelled to respond sooner due to a tabloid leak.
- Focus on Awareness: Although he didn’t specify the exact type of colorectal cancer, Van Der Beek stressed the importance of awareness and early detection for better outcomes.
- Family Support Amidst Adversity: Supported by his wife Kimberly and their six children, Van Der Beek is navigating this challenge as a family, who have previously endured health hardships together.
- Raising Awareness on a Larger Stage: Van Der Beek will participate in The Real Full Monty TV special in December, an event aimed at educating audiences about cancer screenings alongside other celebrities.
The Cleveland Clinic describes colorectal cancer as a disease starting from growths in the colon’s inner lining. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and unexplained weight loss. While Van Der Beek did not specify the type of colorectal cancer he has, he emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the disease. Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers in the United States, but early detection through screenings can significantly improve outcomes.
Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, showed her support publicly, commenting on his Instagram post with a heartfelt message. The couple, who married in 2010, share six children. The family has faced challenges before, including Kimberly’s miscarriages in 2019 and 2020. Despite these hardships, they remain a united front, supporting each other through difficult times.
In December, Van Der Beek will participate in “The Real Full Monty,” a TV special designed to raise awareness for cancer screenings. The event will feature celebrities like Taye Diggs and Tyler Posey, and aims to entertain while educating the public on the importance of testing for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancers.