ACTOR James Van Der Beek revealed he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in an interview with CNN.
“I have personally coped with this diagnosis and have taken steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” his statement read.
Van Der Beek, 47, added: “There is reason for optimism, and I feel fine.”
People Magazine was the first to report this news.
In the United States, about 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society.
In a statement posted on his Instagram page hours after his initial statement was released, Van Der Beek wrote he had been “receiving treatment and is more focused on his overall health than ever.”
He planned to speak at greater length “to raise awareness and tell my story in my own way” in the future, but his plans, he wrote, “had to be changed this morning when I was told a tabloid would be publishing this story.”
“Nothing happened according to the schedule I wanted,” he wrote. “But we just roll with it, taking each surprise as a sign pointing us toward a greater destiny than we could find without divine intervention.”
He also expressed his gratitude for “all the love and support” he and his family have received since then.
Van Der Beek has six children with his wife, Kimberly. He recently shared photos of his family celebrating Halloween on Instagram.
“My six year old daughter was very disappointed that her angel costume would not arrive in time for trick-or-treating,” she wrote in the caption. “He was given the task of making his own halo, which he worked on for HOURS – wrapping yellow thread around garden wire.”
After her daughter finished the halo, she wrote, “the look of pride on her face when she saw her finished project in the mirror was, for me… my favorite moment of Halloween.”
The actor is best known for his role as the title character in the teen drama “Dawson’s Creek,” which aired from 1998 to 2003. Most recently, he appeared as a guest star on an episode of “Walker” and will appear in the Tubi film “Sidelined: The QB and Me” later this month. (CNN/Z-3)
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**Interview with James Van Der Beek: Coping with a Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis**
**Interviewer**: James, thank you for joining us today. First and foremost, how are you doing after your recent diagnosis of colorectal cancer?
**James Van Der Beek**: Thank you for having me. I’m doing okay, actually. I’ve been really focusing on my health, receiving treatment, and I have the support of my incredible family during this time, which makes a world of difference.
**Interviewer**: That’s good to hear. You’ve mentioned feeling optimistic despite the diagnosis. What has helped you maintain that positive outlook?
**James Van Der Beek**: I believe it’s essential to keep a healthy mindset. I’ve surrounded myself with loved ones who uplift me. There’s also a lot of information and support out there for people dealing with this, which I’ve found encouraging. It reminds me that I’m not alone in this.
**Interviewer**: You’ve been open about your journey on social media. What prompted you to share your story publicly?
**James Van Der Beek**: I think there’s power in vulnerability. By sharing my experience, I hope to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, especially since it can often be overlooked. If my story encourages someone to get screened or seek help, then it’s worth it.
**Interviewer**: That’s a commendable perspective. What advice would you give to others who might be facing a similar situation?
**James Van Der Beek**: I would say, don’t hesitate to seek support – whether it’s from family, friends, or professionals. Stay informed, take it one day at a time, and remember that there’s always hope. Your health is your top priority, and it’s perfectly okay to focus on that.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, James. It’s inspiring to hear your thoughts. We wish you all the best in your treatment and recovery.
**James Van Der Beek**: Thank you very much. I appreciate the support!
