“Dawson’s Creek” Star Launches Fundraiser to Cover Cancer Treatment Costs
James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role as Dawson in “Dawson’s Creek,” is turning to his fans to help cover his cancer treatment costs. The 48-year-old has partnered with Propstore to auction off a collection of memorabilia he has kept throughout his career.
The items include costumes, props, and set pieces from his past projects. Highlights of the auction include the prom necklace his character Dawson gave Joey (Katie Holmes) in “Dawson’s Creek” and the cleats and West Canaan Coyotes hat worn by Van Der Beek in the 1999 movie “Varsity Blues.”
Speaking to People, Van Der Beek said, “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.”
The auction will take place during Propstore’s annual Winter Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction, running from December 5 to December 7, with all proceeds going directly to Van Der Beek’s medical expenses.
Van Der Beek revealed last year that he was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum and is the third most common cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with this type of cancer in their lifetime.
“I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” Van Der Beek told People. “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”
Fans of the actor now have a chance to own a piece of television and film history while supporting him during a challenging time.
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