Eric Dane, star of Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has just shared news that is very close to his heart. He announced that he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease here on the North American continent. The actor announced the incredibly adorable news with an equally adorable Instagram post filled with love. He articulated his love for his supportive family and his refusal to stop working.
ALS is one type of motor neurone disease, but it is known to be the most common form under this umbrella. The disease kills off nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in a slow, progressive loss of muscle control. Sadly, as of this month, there remains no cure available for ALS. Patients have long been faced with a dire prognosis, surviving an average of only 27 months after receiving their diagnosis. There are outliers; some people defy the odds, living for decades with the disease.
The disease rose to national consciousness after Yankees baseball player Lou Gehrig was diagnosed with it in 1939. This diagnosis inspired the disease’s other name. Renowned physicist Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with a slow-progressing form of ALS at age 21 and surprised many by living until the age of 76, defying initial expectations. Other high-profile patients, including actor David Niven and musician Roberta Flack, suffered from motor neurone disease.
In a public statement, Dane explained what the diagnosis meant for him and reiterated his dedication to his work moving forward.
“I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” – Eric Dane.
Fingers crossed that means he will still be returning to play Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, as he announced in the Healthy Hills video.
“I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week,” – Eric Dane.
Dane’s determination to continue working and pursuing new opportunities is an inspiration to others dealing with the same kind of health issues. His dedication demonstrates the role that powerful support systems and resilience play in overcoming life-changing diagnoses.