James Van Der Beek's Family GoFundMe Surpasses $1 Million After Actor's Death
A fundraiser for the family of actor James Van Der Beek has raised over $1 million within hours of his death from bowel cancer at age 48. The Dawson's Creek star's family announced his passing on Wednesday, describing how he faced his final days "with courage, faith and grace."
Fundraiser for Wife and Six Children
The GoFundMe campaign was established to support Van Der Beek's wife Kimberly, whom he married in 2010, and their six children. More than 22,000 donations have already been made toward the $1.3 million goal, with numerous fans leaving messages of support on the fundraising page.
The description on the donation page explains: "James Van Der Beek was a beloved husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care."
Financial Strain from Medical Costs
The page continues: "In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James's medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time."
Funds raised will go toward essential living expenses, bill payments, and supporting the children's education as the family seeks to rebuild their lives after their loss.
Previous Fundraising Efforts
Prior to his death, Van Der Beek was reportedly selling career memorabilia to fund his cancer treatment, including items from the 1999 film Varsity Blues and Dawson's Creek. This prompted fellow actor Paul Walter Hauser to launch his own fundraising effort on Cameo in the weeks before Van Der Beek's death.
Hauser raised over $14,000 for Van Der Beek's medical expenses and has since shared that he has raised half of his $20,000 goal through Cameo videos. Following the actor's death, Hauser described Van Der Beek as "one of the good guys" and pledged to continue fundraising to support the late actor's family.
Co-Stars and Celebrities Pay Tribute
Van Der Beek's Dawson's Creek co-stars reunited in September to help raise money for his cancer treatment through an event organized in support of the actor and the charity F Cancer. The event was attended by former co-stars including Michelle Williams, Katie Holmes, and Joshua Jackson.
Celebrities including Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ben Stiller, Selma Blair, Alec Baldwin, Melissa Joan Hart, Christie Brinkley, and Rosie O'Donnell have paid tribute to the actor on social media following his death.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer, known as bowel cancer in the UK, starts in the large bowel (colon) and the back passage (rectum). Treatment depends on where in the bowel system the cancer begins. According to Cancer Research, symptoms can include:
- Bleeding from the rectum or blood in stool
- Changes in normal bowel habits
- A lump that can be felt in the rectum or abdomen
- A feeling of needing to defecate even after doing so
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain in the abdomen or rectum
- Tiredness and breathlessness caused by low red blood cell levels
The outpouring of support for Van Der Beek's family highlights both the financial challenges faced by families dealing with serious illnesses and the community response that can emerge during times of tragedy.
