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kept a positive attitude in his final days, .
Van Der Beek two months ago called his stage 3 colorectal diagnosis the 'best thing that ever happened' to him because of the positive changes it brought about in his day-to-day dealings, and the way he looked at life.
Van Der Beek, who shot to fame , opened up to the Today show in December about the positive impact that the diagnosis had on his life, forcing him to make essential changes.
Van Der Beek, who was following news of his passing Wednesday, said he heard 'a little voice' that reminded him of the silver lining the diagnosis brought.
Van Der Beek, also known for his roles in Varsity Blues, One Tree Hill and CSI: Cyber, said he had the thought, 'You're gonna make changes in your life that you would never, ever make if you didn't have this extreme of a diagnosis.'
Van Der Beek, , 44, said he believed the changes would ultimately result in adding ' healthy, happy years' to his life.
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James Van Der Beek stayed optimistic in his final days prior to his tragic passing at the age of 48 Wednesday. Pictured speaking with the Today show on Wednesday
Van Der Beek told NBC correspondent Craig Melvin that the diagnosis provided him with a proper mindset that impacted his body and mind.
Van Der Beek two months ago called his stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis the 'best thing that ever happened' to him because of the positive changes it brought about
The actor was pictured in January 2020, more than three years prior to his cancer diagnosis
Van Der Beek played Dawson Leery on the show Dawson's Creek (L); and Jonathon 'Mox' Moxon in the 1999 film Varsity Blues
Van Der Beek added, 'The biggest change I’d say would be this journey of self love,' adding, 'What I realized was, I’m still worthy of love. My own love, God’s love.'
