Following James Van Der Beek‘s passing on Wednesday, February 11, after a brave battle with cancer, celebrities from all over the industry have been speaking out and sending their condolences. And while some tributes to the “Dawson’s Creek” have been heartfelt and heartbreaking, some have focused on the beautiful family Van Der Beek has so tragically left behind.
On Instagram stories, Lauren Zima, the wife of former “The Bachelor” host Chris Harrison, spoke out about his passing. In it, she honored Van Der Beek by sharing the GoFundMe page his family and friends set up for his family.
Lauren Zima Encouraged Fans to Donate
GettyIn her statement, Zima started by saying that she and Van Der Beek were friends and lived close together in Austin, Texas. So while much of her support will likely be done in person, showing up for his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six kids, Zima took the time to highlight the GoFundMe page.
“His family has not only lost him, but is also dealing with the heavy aftermath of treatment costs, and of being without him both emotionally and financially,” she wrote. “If you are able to support at all, what a way to honor the joy he gave so many with his career. There is so much fallout from grief and loss.”
The GoFundMe Page Highlights the Van Der Beeks’ Financial Burden
GettyIn the GoFundMe page set up for Van Der Beek’s family, the statement emphasizes how difficult it has been for the family to cope with cancer treatments.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future,” the description said. “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds.”
As a result, his wife Kimberly is struggling to make ends meet. “They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time,” it continued. “The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.”
The page was initially set up to raise $500,000 for the family. But, after donations began pouring in just minutes after sharing the link to Instagram, the fundraiser had reached more than $100,000. Things multiplied quickly as various $10,000 donations rolled in, in addition to a $25,000 donation from Guardant Health.
Now, the GoFundMe has set a new goal for $1.3 million, and are just $100,000 away from reaching it at the time of writing.
