James Van Der Beek’s recent penned message to his young son is a tear jerker.

Following the “Dawson’s Creek” star’s cancer diagnosis last year, the 48-year-old turned to Instagram on Oct. 10, to share an incredibly special and emotional birthday message for his 4-year-old son Jeremiah.

“4 years old today. After 2 late-term losses, we thought we were done. Thank God you knew better,” he began. “An iron will combined with an innate sweetness. And ALL boy. And as you run around and scream and bang things … all I can think about is how grateful I am that you came to us.”

The beloved actor continued the post by describing his son’s spirit.

“You’ve been particular from the jump. And as your language skills have finally caught up the specificity of your desires, what I’m seeing is a fun-loving, passionate soul who doesn’t think twice about speaking up for exactly what he wants. And for that example, I thank you.”

This next part is where readers might want to grab the closest tissue they can find.

“I’m sorry there have been spells where I couldn’t be the father I would want to be for you … where I was too weak to pick you up, throw you around, or even put you to bed … but know that watching you reveal yourself to us has been one of the greatest joys of my life.”

“And even though you’re stingy with the hugs … when you do decide to wrap those thick little arms around my neck, it’s like time has stood still and all is right with the world. I love you, bubba. And I always will. And all you ever have to do is be you. Happy birthday, my ‘big little boy,’” he concluded.

Fans and fellow celebrities flocked to the post in support of Van Der Beek’s heartfelt words to his young son.

“Sooooooo sweet!!!!!!!,” “Dawson’s Creek” co-star Katie Holmes commented.

“This just made me cry, love it all so much! Happy birthday, sweet Jeremiah,” “Dancing with the Stars” dancer Emma Slater wrote.

“You write the most beautiful love stories to your family,” the Instagram account for One Simple Wish noted.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.