The respected and acclaimed actor Eric Dane, 52, has been diagnosed with ALS.
The Grey’s Anatomy star is now facing the battle of his life against a degenerative condition that attacks the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, progressively worsening over time.
A heartbreaking turn
San Francisco-born Eric Dane rose to fame with his iconic role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy in 2005.
Dane was an athlete in high school, where he played on the varsity water polo team. However, his passion shifted to acting after he participated in a school production of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons.
He first appeared as a guest star in Grey’s Anatomy but the audience’s positive reaction to his character quickly led to Dane becoming a regular in the show’s third season. His memorable entrance — stepping out of the bathroom drenched and wearing only a strategically placed towel — became an unforgettable ”watercooler moment” for fans.
He has also appeared in films like Marley & Me (2008), Valentine’s Day (2010), and Burlesque (2010).
But now, Eric’s life has taken an unexpected and heartbreaking turn.
The 52-year-old actor has revealed that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive degenerative condition that impacts the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Has two children
”I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” the 52-year-old Euphoria actor and Grey’s Anatomy alum told People magazine.
Despite the cruel diagnosis, Dane — who portrays the Jacobs family patriarch on Euphoria — is set to begin filming season 3 of the hit HBO series on April 14.
”I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of ‘Euphoria’ next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”
Eric Dane is married to Rebecca Gayheart, and together they have two daughters: 15-year-old Billie Beatrice and 13-year-old Georgia Geraldine.
What is ALS?
ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease after the baseball player who suffered from it, disrupts the communication between nerves and muscles, leading to progressive muscle weakness. As the disease advances, it becomes more difficult for patients to move and perform everyday tasks.
What are the symptoms?
The first signs of ALS usually appear on one side of the body, with symptoms spreading as the disease progresses.
Early symptoms can include weakness in a hand, making it hard to open jars, or in a foot, which might cause tripping while walking. People with ALS often experience slurred speech and difficulty swallowing as the disease worsens.
How long do people with ALS survive?
The average survival rate for ALS patients is typically 2 to 4 years after diagnosis.
However, there are some who live much longer, with the most famous example being the late Stephen Hawking. On the other hand, some people may only survive for a few months or up to a year. The variability in survival is one of the many complexities of the disease.
Who typically gets ALS?
ALS tends to affect physically active individuals, particularly those with a lean physique or high metabolism. It’s often seen in people who have spent years engaging in endurance activities. For example, professional football players were four times more likely than the general population to develop and die from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS.
However, the disease can affect anyone, regardless of their lifestyle.
Why do people get ALS?
The exact cause of ALS remains a mystery, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. Around 10-15% of ALS cases are hereditary, meaning they are passed down through families.
For the remaining 85%, experts believe that a genetic predisposition combined with something in the environment may trigger the disease.
I feel so heartbroken for Eric and his family.
Sending all my love and strength to you, Eric, and your loved ones during this incredibly tough time. Stay strong, you’re in my thoughts.
