James Van Der Beek Reveals Vasectomy Came Just Before Cancer Diagnosis

James Van Der Beek, best known for his role on Dawson’s Creek, is opening up about some major life changes that have hit him and his family.

During an interview with People published on Saturday, James shared that he and his wife, Kimberly, have officially closed the chapter on having more children after he underwent a vasectomy—only to be diagnosed with cancer shortly after.

The couple, who have been married for over a decade, are proud parents to six children and have always felt blessed with incredible fertility. However, James admitted that the decision to get a vasectomy was the only way to ensure their family wouldn’t grow any larger.

Following the procedure, James humorously recounted a moment when his youngest daughter, six-year-old Gwen, expressed her well-wishes in the most adorable way. “She said, ‘I hope your vagina feels better,’” James said, smiling at the sweet, albeit anatomically incorrect, comment.

The lightheartedness comes in the middle of a serious and difficult time for James and his family. He revealed that he has been diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer and is currently undergoing treatment. The initial news, he shared, was a shock, but he’s feeling better now that he’s able to speak about it publicly.

James Van Der Beek is also set to appear in The Real Full Monty, a two-hour special where he and other celebrities will strip down to raise awareness for various types of cancer, next month.

We’re wishing James and his family all the strength and positivity in the world during this challenging time. What are your thoughts on James’ story? Share your well-wishes and thoughts in the comments below!