James Van Der Beek, best known for his role on the iconic series Dawson's Creek, is opening up about his ongoing battle with stage 3 colon cancer—a diagnosis he received in 2023. In a recent appearance on the third hour of NBC’s Today, the actor offered candid insights into the daily realities of living with cancer, describing it as a “full-time job.” His story underscores the importance of early detection and the profound life changes that often follow a serious health diagnosis.

Van Der Beek shared that while he currently feels great, the path has been anything but easy. “It’s been a journey,” he said. “There are just so many ups and downs and so many unknowns.” He emphasized that managing cancer isn’t just about treatment—it involves a complete overhaul of one’s lifestyle and mindset. This includes not only medical care but also emotional resilience, physical adjustments, and a commitment to long-term wellness practices.

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One of the most striking aspects of his interview was his description of cancer as a “full-time job.” This metaphor captures the ongoing nature of the challenges he faces. It’s not a condition with a clear endpoint, but rather a continuous process that demands attention, adaptation, and energy. “It’ll probably be a process for the rest of my life,” he acknowledged, reflecting a sobering but realistic outlook on chronic illness management.

Since his diagnosis, the 48-year-old actor has made significant changes to his daily routine. He has embraced a keto diet, incorporated yoga and regular stretching into his schedule, and prioritized rest. These adjustments reflect a broader shift in how he approaches health and well-being. “I’m finding the beauty of just taking things a little bit more slowly,” he said, highlighting the value of mindfulness and self-care in his recovery journey.

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most common cancer worldwide, following lung and breast cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, adults aged 45 and older should undergo regular screenings, such as colonoscopies or stool tests. These screenings are critical because symptoms—like rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue—often appear only after the disease has progressed. Van Der Beek’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of why preventive care cannot be overlooked.

In his interview, Van Der Beek admitted that he was unaware the recommended screening age had been lowered from 50 to 45. “I got screened at 46,” he said. “I thought I was way ahead of the game.” He urges others not to wait for symptoms to appear before seeking medical advice. “Even just the slightest little change, it could be something,” he warned. “Don’t think that not having symptoms means you don’t have to get screened, especially for something that is this curable when caught early.”

His message is especially poignant given his previously healthy lifestyle. “I ate as well as I could. I was healthy. I was in amazing cardiovascular shape,” he shared. “There was no reason in my mind that I should have gotten a positive diagnosis.” This disconnect between perceived health and actual risk is a common challenge in preventive medicine, and Van Der Beek’s story illustrates the need for vigilance, even among those who feel well.

In a separate interview with PEOPLE in November 2024, Van Der Beek offered words of encouragement to others facing similar battles. “Miracles do happen — and they happen all the time,” he said. “It’s scary at the onset. It’s overwhelming. Go easy on yourself. You got this.” His gratitude for his support system, especially his wife Kimberly and their children, was evident. “I’ve got a lot to live for, and it’s a beautiful life,” he added.

I found this detail striking: despite the gravity of his diagnosis, Van Der Beek’s outlook remains grounded and hopeful. His willingness to speak publicly about his experience helps demystify a disease that affects so many yet is often shrouded in silence. By sharing both the physical and emotional dimensions of his journey, he not only raises awareness about colon cancer but also provides a voice for others navigating similar paths.

As public figures like Van Der Beek continue to share their health stories, the conversation around early detection and proactive care becomes more urgent and relatable. His experience is a compelling call to action for routine screenings, lifestyle mindfulness, and compassion—for ourselves and others. Whether it’s adopting healthier habits or simply making that overdue appointment, his message is clear: don’t wait.

Read more at people.com