James Van Der Beek’s recent passing at 48 has left a significant void not only in the hearts of his family but also in the entertainment community. After battling stage III colorectal cancer, he left behind his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children. In a loving gesture, friends and fans quickly launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Kimberly and the kids, raising over $400,000 in mere hours. The campaign aims to cover medical bills and provide for the family as they navigate this difficult time.
Celebrity support has poured in, with stars like Derek Hough and Lydia Hearst contributing to the fund. Others, including Busy Phillipps, have advocated for donations on social media, drawing attention to the cause. It’s a powerful reminder of how communities and friendships come together in times of need. As Kimberly faces an uncertain future, the support from the wider community highlights that even in tragedy, there’s an opportunity for collective kindness. Given how life-changing support like this can be, it raises the question—how do you define community in moments of crisis?
About the Author
Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
