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Eric Dane’s Family Navigates ALS Diagnosis with Hope and Therapy
Former “Grey’s Anatomy” star Eric Dane and his family are confronting his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis, finding strength in professional support and a “day by day” approach. His wife of more than 20 years, actress Rebecca Gayheart, revealed on September 26 that she and their teen daughters, Billie and Georgia, are working through the challenges of the 52-year-old actor’s neurological disorder, aided by professional therapists.
Speaking at Step Up’s 2025 Inspiration Awards in Los Angeles, Gayheart, 54, known for “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood,” was candid about the emotional toll Dane’s health has taken. “I mean, it’s heartbreaking.
My girls are really suffering, and we’re just trying to get through it. It’s a tough time,” she told People.
Dane’s ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, has led to the loss of use in his right arm. He has previously stated his expectation that the progressive disease will eventually affect his left arm as well.
Gayheart admitted to struggling to find any positive aspects in their current situation. “I don’t think I’m at a place yet where I can pull out a positive nugget.
I’m not there yet,” she confessed. While acknowledging that she and Dane have grown “closer” amidst his health struggles, she added, “we don’t like the reason why.”
The couple’s relationship has seen complexities. Gayheart filed for divorce from Dane in 2018 after 14 years of marriage, though the case was reportedly dismissed in March. In April of this year, she hinted that their romantic relationship had ended, though they continue to co-parent their children.
“We’re definitely dealing with something that has brought us all together, and Eric will always be my family, whether we’re married or not, or living in the same house or not,” Gayheart told People on September 26. “It’s a horrible disease, and I wish that there was a cure. I hope they find one soon, because it is just so sad.”
Dane, in an interview with Diane Sawyer released June 16, underscored Gayheart’s crucial role in his support system. “I talk to her every day,” he shared. “And she is probably my biggest champion, my most stalwart supporter, and I lean on her.”