Film and television actor Eric Dane, known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has sent a strong shot across the bow with this proclamation. He made a public announcement of his diagnosis with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Dane struggles with many physical and emotional challenges due to his condition. It progressively destroys motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle atrophy, weakness, and eventual paralysis.
Dane, 52, said he was thankful to have a loving, supportive family to help him through this trying time. He stated, “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” ALS is marked by an unrelenting loss of motor function, a condition that becomes increasingly debilitating as the disease advances. With progression of the disease, it severely impacts a person’s mobility, their ability to talk and even to breathe. This diagnosis changes everything about their life.
The actor’s recent disclosure has opened the door to much-needed conversations about what risk factors are associated with ALS. Medical professionals refuse to accept that age is a primary factor in health risk. Most diagnoses occur when patients are between the ages of 40 and 70 years old. Dr. Leah Croll noted, “Typically, the average age of diagnosis is about 55.” A family history of ALS is a factor in an individual’s risk. At present, there are just two identified risk factors for this ravaging disease.
As daunting as the road ahead may be, Dane is buoyant about his future career prospects. He mentioned, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to [the] set of ‘Euphoria’ next week.” It serves to underscore the value of healthy aging through activity and staying committed to one’s true passions despite life’s challenges.
Although there is no known cure for ALS at this time, a few FDA-approved drugs can delay the advance of the disease. Access to physical and speech therapies can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected. These interventions are crucial in helping them alleviate uncomfortable symptoms and stay independent longer.
