AceShowbiz - James Van Der Beek, famed for his role in "Dawson's Creek," recently opened up about his tough battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer and how it has impacted his family life. The actor shared his deeply personal journey in an Instagram video titled "What Cancer Taught Me," which he published shortly after his 48th birthday.

Van Der Beek first announced his diagnosis in November 2024 and has since been candid about the challenges he faces. "This past year has been the hardest of my life," he confided to his 1.6 million followers.

Throughout his treatment, he found it difficult to fulfill his cherished roles as a husband and father, feeling an acute sense of loss and helplessness.

"When I was younger, I used to define myself as an actor, which was never all that fulfilling," he shared. "Then I became a husband and it was much better. Then I became a father and that was the ultimate... All of those definitions that I cared so deeply about were stripped from me."

Van Der Beek elaborated that his inability to provide support at home left him questioning his identity. "I could no longer be a husband who was helpful to my wife," he said, reflecting on his time away from his family due to treatment. "I could no longer be a father who could pick up his kids and put them to bed and be there for them. I could not be a provider because I wasn't working."

Despite his struggles, Van Der Beek turned to faith to find solace. "I am worthy of God's love simply because I exist," he noted. This realization not only brought him peace but also inspired him to share a universal message of self-worth with his followers.

"I certainly don't claim to know what God is or explain God, my efforts to connect to God are an ongoing process that is a constant unfolding mystery to me," he said. For those uncomfortable with the religious aspect, Van Der Beek encouraged replacing the term "God" with "love," reinforcing the belief that everyone is worthy of love.

The actor's plight has also highlighted the unwavering support he received from his family, particularly from his father, whom he praised for being a pillar of strength during his treatment.

"The way you have shown up when I've been down and out this year... has been not just life-saving, but life-affirming," he wrote in a touching tribute.

Married to Kimberly Van Der Beek since 2010, the couple shares four daughters and two sons. Their journey, though fraught with challenges, stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, faith, and resilience.

Van Der Beek's story serves as a powerful reminder that even in moments of profound struggle, finding inner strength and self-worth can illuminate the path to recovery.