James Van Der Beek Parts With ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Memories To Raise Funds For Cancer Treatment

Actor

James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, is auctioning off cherished memorabilia from his career to raise money for his medical expenses as he continues his battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. The 48-year-old actor has teamed up with Propstore for the sale.

Iconic Props from Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues Up for Auction

The auction catalog includes an array of memorable items from Van Der Beek’s film and television career. Among the pieces is the prom necklace that Dawson gifted Joey (played by Katie Holmes) in Dawson’s Creek, along with the cleats and West Canaan Coyotes hat worn by the actor in the 1999 sports drama Varsity Blues.These collectibles will be available through Propstore’s Annual Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, running from December 5 to December 7. All proceeds from the sale will go directly toward Van Der Beek’s ongoing medical costs.

Battling Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer

Van Der Beek was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer last year. This form of cancer begins in the colon or rectum and is one of the most common cancers in both men and women. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women in the United States will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer during their lifetime.Speaking to People, the actor shared, “I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family. There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”ALSO READ: The Devil Wears Prada 2 First Teaser: Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep Look Uber Stylish In Latest Glimpse - WATCH

“It Feels Good to Share These Memories”

Opening up about the emotional significance of parting with items from his career, Van Der Beek told People, “I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now. While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore’s auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years.”

Rising Costs of Cancer Treatment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colorectal cancer ranks second in terms of treatment costs among all cancer types. In 2020 alone, the U.S. spent more than $24.3 billion on colorectal cancer treatment, accounting for 11.3% of all cancer-related healthcare expenses in the country.