James van der Beek thanks dad for ‘lifesaving’ support during cancer battle
James van der Beek reflects on the “life-affirming” support he received from his father months after being diagnosed with stage 3 cancer.
The “Dawson’s Creek” actor celebrated his father’s birthday on Saturday, and shared a heartfelt post on social media for the man who stepped up to help his family in their time of need.
Van der Beek, 47, revealed his colorectal cancer diagnosis in November and has been recovering ever since with the help of friends and family.
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James van der Beek has thanked his father for his tireless support during his battle with cancer. (©2024 Fox Media LLC. CR: Drew Herrmann/FOX)
“The way you showed me going down and out this year – without us asking, without even expecting a thank you… was not only life-saving, but life-affirming,” he wrote on Instagram. Singing in photographs with his father, James William van der Beek.
“Going to the ranch when I’m not on therapy. Making lunch, building a fire for @VanderKimberly, driving the kids, taking care of the dogs and chickens (both of which you never want and never want to eat).”
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He added, “But it’s more than that. I’m so angry at how you emotionally treated me when I was going through everything that cancer brings… I know this is out of your comfort zone, but you’ve pushed me over and over in a way I didn’t even know I needed, especially since my mom passed away.”
“Watching you evolve, seeing what kind of man and father you are… it gives me more confidence in myself than I can express. I’m so proud and lucky to have come from you. Thank you for being the best. Always. I’ll keep my promise to never ask you to change Jeremiah’s diapers.”
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Van der Beek admitted in November that he was “dealing with this diagnosis personally and (with the support of my incredible family) taking steps to resolve it.” People magazine.
James van der Beek celebrated his father’s birthday with a heartfelt post on social media. (Mark Von Holden)
“There’s reason for optimism and I’m feeling good,” he said.
He had no family history of cancer, and was surprised by the diagnosis because of his health habits.
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“They always associated cancer with age and an unhealthy lifestyle. But I was in amazing cardiovascular shape. I tried to eat healthy food – or as far as I knew,” van der Beek said.
After noticing changes in his bowel movements last year, he blamed his diet for his cancer symptoms.
James and his wife Kimberly van der Beek have six children. (Michael Kovach)
“I thought maybe I should stop for coffee,” he said. “Or I don’t put cream in coffee. But when I cut that out and it didn’t improve, I thought, ‘Well, you better check this out.'”
He scheduled a colonoscopy, and it was after the procedure The actor Learned about the investigation.
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“It felt so good to come out of anesthesia, that I finally made it,” he continued. “Then the gastroenterologist – in his most pleasant bed – is cancer. I think I went into shock.”
“Many treatments” help control colorectal cancer, including “surgery, radiation therapy, and medications such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.” Mayo Clinic.