James Van Der Beek speaks out after being diagnosed with colon cancer

James Van Der Beek shares some pointed thoughts after revealing his colon cancer diagnosis.

In an Instagram post on Sunday, November 3, the 47-year-old star, who shared his health news exclusively with PEOPLE, apologized to his loved ones who had to learn of his diagnosis so suddenly through the media.

“It's cancer… Every year around two billion people in the world receive this diagnosis. And I am one of them,” Van Der Beek began. “There's no rulebook for how to announce these things, but I had planned to speak at length with People magazine about it soon… to raise awareness and tell my story on my own terms. But that plan had to change early this year.” morning when I was told a tabloid would be published with the news.

Stating that he has “so far dealt with this privately, sought treatment and taken care of my overall health with greater focus than ever before,” the actor continued, “I'm doing well and feeling strong. It was quite a beginning,” and I’ll tell you more when I’m ready.

“I apologize to all the people in my life that I actually wanted to tell. “Nothing has happened in this process in my preferred time frame… But we go along with it, taking every surprise as a signpost pointing us toward a greater destiny than we would have discovered without divine intervention,” concluded Van Der Beek. “Please know that my family and I greatly appreciate all the love and support. More to come…”

Alongside the statement, Van Der Beek shared a video compilation featuring photos of himself alone and with his children, set to “Autumn Breeze” by Richard LaForge.

Never miss a story again — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

In an exclusive statement to PEOPLE on Sunday, November 3, Van Der Beek shared the health news.

“I have colon cancer. I have dealt with this diagnosis privately and, with the support of my incredible family, have taken steps to resolve it,” he said in an exclusive statement.

“There is reason for optimism and I feel good,” he said University Blues Star added.

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer begins in the large intestine or rectum, which form the large intestine in the digestive system.

Despite his diagnosis, Van Der Beek has actively worked to navigate his care.

He recently appeared in an episode of walker and he will star next Offside: The QB and mea Tubi original film releasing November 29th. Van Der Beek also values ​​time with his family – wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.

Van Der Beek is scheduled to appear next month The real Full Montya two-hour special featuring a group of male celebrities, including Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Taye Diggs, Chris Jones and longtime Dancing with the stars Judge Bruno Tonioli will strip to raise awareness of testing and research into prostate, testicular and colon cancer.

The event is inspired by the 1997 Oscar-nominated film The full MontyAnthony Anderson serves as executive producer.

The real Full Monty Premiere is scheduled for December 9th.