Yesterday we lost James Van Der Beek after a more than two-year battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer.
For many of us, he was Dawson from Dawson's Creek. He was “Mox” from Varsity Blues. He was part of our late 90s and early 2000s coming-of-age story. But in his final years, he became something even more powerful — a public example of faith, fatherhood, and courage in the face of illness.
In this episode of This with Krish, we remember his career, reflect on his very public battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer, and have a serious conversation about a sobering reality:
Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in adults under 50 in the United States.
While overall cancer deaths have declined in younger adults, colorectal cancer deaths have been rising by approximately 1% per year since 2005. For men under 50, it is now the number one cancer killer. For women under 50, it is the second leading cause. Across the general population, it remains the second leading cause of cancer death overall.
We talk about: • His legacy and cultural impact • His openness about diagnosis and treatment • Faith and surrender in suffering • Why screening guidelines have changed • Why younger adults must take symptoms seriously
If you are under 50, this episode is especially important.
Colorectal Cancer Screening & Resources:
American Cancer Society – Screening Guidelines https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/screening-guidelines.html
CDC – Colorectal Cancer Basics & Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/
National Cancer Institute – Colon and Rectal Cancer Information https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal
Colorectal Cancer Alliance https://www.ccalliance.org/
If you are 45 or older, talk to your doctor about screening. If you have symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, blood in your stool, unexplained fatigue, or changes in bowel habits — do not ignore them.
This episode is about remembrance — but it is also about awareness.
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