Eric Dane, the former star of “Grey’s Anatomy,” has bravely opened up about his ongoing battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in an exclusive interview with Diane Sawyer on “Good Morning America.” This marks Dane’s first televised discussion regarding his health struggles since he publicly announced his diagnosis earlier this year.
Dane, 52, shared that he has already lost the functionality of his right arm, and he fears his left hand may soon follow. Reflecting on his situation, he said, “I wake up every day and I’m immediately reminded that this is happening. It’s not a dream.” His symptoms began over a year ago with a weakness in his right hand, which he initially attributed to fatigue from texting too much.
The actor’s family has been a significant support system for him throughout this challenging time. Dane highlighted his relationship with his ex-wife, Rebecca Gayheart, as a source of strength, calling her his “biggest champion.” Together, they share two teenage daughters, and he expressed concern about the possibility of leaving them too soon, drawing on personal experiences of loss when he lost his father to suicide at age seven.
Dane’s experience with ALS has not only been physically demanding but emotionally taxing as well, as evidenced by a poignant moment during a boat trip with his daughter, where he struggled to swim. “I was just heartbroken,” he recalled, illustrating the deep emotional impact of his condition.
Despite the devastating prognosis for ALS patients, which averages two to five years of survival from initial symptoms, Dane is resolute in wanting to spend quality time with his family and embrace his career for as long as he can. “I don’t think this is the end of my story,” he remarked, echoing a hopeful determination in the face of adversity.
With no known cure for ALS, he remains focused on maximizing his quality of life through available treatments and support, sharing a message of resilience and love.
This article brings attention to the broader awareness of ALS and highlights the importance of family and support systems during tough times, as well as the hope that can exist even in the face of such serious challenges.