James Van Der Beek is taking steps to make cancer treatment more accessible for himself and others. The 47-year-old actor, who disclosed his colorectal cancer diagnosis last month, recently announced that he’s selling merchandise from his 1999 film “Varsity Blues” to fund cancer treatment expenses, including his own. In an Instagram post, Van Der Beek donned a jersey bearing the last name of his character, Jonathan “Mox” Moxon.
“Merch drop! Thrilled to commemorate the 25th anniversary of #VarsityBlues with a limited edition #4 Moxon jersey—each one personally autographed by me. Secure yours now at the link in my bio or visit JVDB.Shop,” he shared.
“100% of my net proceeds will support families burdened by the financial strain of cancer (including my own 😇),” Van Der Beek added. The former “Dawson’s Creek” star also posted the announcement on his Instagram Stories, encouraging fans, “Order now & get a signed one in time for Christmas.” He concluded with, “#CancerIsExpensive ❤️.”
Van Der Beek portrayed the backup quarterback in the coming-of-age sports film set in a small-town Texas high school football team. The movie also featured Jon Voight, Paul Walker, Ali Larter, Amy Smart, Ron Lester, and Scott Caan.
Van Der Beek revealed his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis in an interview with People in early November. “The most challenging aspect is the uncertainty surrounding cancer,” he explained. “As someone who prefers clarity, not knowing is one of the toughest things.”
The father of six received his diagnosis after noticing changes in his bowel habits and undergoing a colonoscopy. “I felt relieved after the procedure, thinking I had finally taken action,” he recounted. “Then the gastroenterologist, with the best bedside manner, informed me it was cancer. I think I went into shock.”
Van Der Beek did not specify his current stage of recovery or remission but expressed “very cautiously optimistic” about his battle with cancer. He also mentioned that he chose to go public with his diagnosis to raise awareness.
Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, has been a pillar of support since his diagnosis. The couple, married since 2010 and parents to six children, relocated to Texas from Los Angeles in 2020.
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