Eric Dane, renowned for his roles in television and film, revealed in April that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating neurological disorder. This announcement has utterly transformed his life. It has taken a heavy toll on his family, particularly his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their two teen daughters, Billie and Georgia.
ALS is a fatal, progressive disease that affects motor neurons. These essential nerve cells, known as motor neurons, live in the brain and spinal cord. The breakdown of these cells causes muscle atrophy, and eventually, paralysis. Even with ALS’s bleak outlook, Eric Dane and his family remain hopeful. They go to great lengths to spread awareness and fight for a cure.
In a recent interview, Rebecca Gayheart described her family’s emotional reaction to Eric’s diagnosis. She articulated so powerfully their struggles as they walk this tragic road side by side.
“I mean, it’s heartbreaking. My girls are really suffering, and we’re just trying to get through it. It’s a tough time.” – Rebecca Gayheart
The couple’s daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, have been particularly affected by their father’s condition. Their responses exhibit the psychological burden that ALS exerts on families. Dane and Gayheart confront the stark realities of their father’s illness. They don’t passively wait for hope to milk resilience on hope sprouts, either.
Persistent optimism is key, Rebecca Gayheart of the Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors, said during this difficult and unprecedented time.
“We’re just trying to have some hope and do it with dignity, grace and love.” – Rebecca Gayheart
Since then, Eric Dane has used his diagnosis as an opportunity to advocate for change. He continues to work with the movement I AM ALS to raise money and awareness for research into the disease. He’s a true believer in this effort. The rare combination of urgency and optimism to make breakthroughs like these pushes him, as ALS, like many other diseases, has gone uncured for more than 100 years.
“There’s so much more to learn, more to do, and we have to do it now.” – Eric Dane
The National Institutes of Health have a wealth of resources and information about ALS, further emphasizing the need to continue research and funding. By appearing with us, Eric Dane hopes to inspire others who have been affected by this ugly disease to join the movement. Together, they will push for a future in which ALS is not the seemingly impossible task it is today.
