James Van Der Beek uploaded a series of photos to his Instagram on Friday to open up and reflect on two devastating pregnancy losses.
The Dawson’s Creek actor, 45, and his wife Kimberly Brook share six children but suffered a total of five miscarriages in nine years, including one in 2019 followed by another shortly a year later in 2020.
In his post, the hard-working father explained that the family has found peace after the losses, saying “healing comes at its own pace”.
Reflection: James Van Der Beek, 45, uploaded a post to his Instagram to reflect on the healing process after two pregnancy losses in 2019 and 2020
In the series of photos, James explained that the first photo showing himself and one of his sons was taken shortly after Kimberly’s first miscarriage in 2019.
“Picture #1 we had just lost a baby at 18 weeks and almost lost @vanderkimberly in the process.” He then highlighted other difficulties he was facing at the time. “I had a collaboration that went south quickly.”
“And I’d just gotten kicked out of a reality dance competition that I’d been won for. (I feel like three of those four are pretty relatable),” the actor added for a touch of humor.
From past to present: After Kimberly suffered two miscarriages, the couple welcomed their sixth child, Jeremiah, in October 2021; The actor was pictured with two of his children in August this month
The second photo he shared was taken in August earlier this month. James was pictured with two of his children, including baby Jeremiah, who was welcomed in October 2021 following Kimberly’s two miscarriages.
The star then went on to explain that after losing the baby: “At the last minute we rented a #RV and headed north. No real plan, just day by day. We pulled into a quaint little RV park I booked a few hours earlier late one night and woke up next to this river.”
The varsity blues actor spoke about accepting the loss and the pain in order to heal properly.
“And so the process began – not necessarily of healing – but of being there. Present yourself to the pain. Showcase the beauty around us. And to be present to accept being in a process that I didn’t understand.’
New baby: Last year, the actor and his wife welcomed a baby boy, Jeremiah, after two pregnancy losses
At peace: After two pregnancy losses two years in a row, James reflected, “I’m amazed at how much I didn’t know about the journey to where I am now.”
James added that after visiting the river in 2019, the family have returned, except they are no longer mourning a loss.
“Two and a half years later, after another late-stage pregnancy loss, after that project completely blown up, after moving to a new state and getting our own RV… we came back to the same point. With a brand new boy.’
The ‘Rules Of Attraction’ star opened up about how there’s always hope, despite his grief over the losses of recent years.
“As I think back on that first journey, I’m amazed at how little I knew about the journey to where I am now… and how much peace I was able to feel in the midst of that darkness.”
Growing family: James and Kimberly tied the knot in 2010 and have six children together, Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah
Happy Couple: Despite the miscarriages, James and Kimberly have stayed strong and continue to be there for their children; pictured together in 2019 in Hollywood
At the end of his statement, James added a few inspirational and touching words: “Whatever you’re going through… if you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel or even know where to look for it…”
“I challenge you not to underestimate the power of a small change in environment…and take the time to sit exactly where you are,” the talented star continued. “Healing comes at its own pace. Attendance could only be a requirement.’
After the miscarriages, the Van Der Beek family moved from Los Angeles to Austin, Texas in 2021 for a fresh start.
The couple opened up to people about the big transition. “It’s the deepest breath, and the kids love Texas. Moving here helps them spread out and become self-sufficient because nature becomes their plaything,” explained Kimberly.
James also advocated settling on a large ranch. “We are really happy here. It is very healing.’
Former relationship: Before James tied the knot with Kimberly, he was married to actress Heather Ann McComb, but after saying “yes” in 2003, the two divorced in 2010
Healing: The actor explained in his recent Instagram post that “healing comes at its own pace”; Seen in Los Angeles in 2019
Big move: After the miscarriages, the Van Der Beek family moved from Los Angeles to a ranch in Austin, Texas