Dawson’s Creek’s James Van Der Beek shares colorectal cancer diagnosis

James Van Der Beek shares insight into his private health battle.

The Dawson’s Creek alum has been diagnosed with colon cancer, he said in a statement People November, while noting that he has “taken steps to resolve it with the support of my incredible family.”

“There’s reason for optimism,” the 47-year-old added of his journey with colon cancer, which originates in the colon or rectum, “and I’m doing well.”

In fact, James has been leaning on his loved ones during this time, including his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children: Olivia14, Joshua12, Annabelle10, Emilia8, Gwendolyn6 and Jeremiah3.

In fact, the family of eight has celebrated many milestones together in recent weeks, including Jeremiah’s birthday.

“Three years old today,” James continued Instagram October 10 along with photos of his youngest child. “We had no idea how much we needed you. But YOU did.”