Eric Dane, the former “Grey’s Anatomy” star, has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. His wife, Rebecca Gayheart, has spoken about the emotional toll on their family, emphasizing their efforts to maintain hope and dignity as they deal with the condition. In an interview with People magazine, Gayheart revealed that she and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, are taking it one day at a time, supported by professional therapists. “We have some professional therapists who are helping us, and we’re just trying to have some hope and do it with dignity, grace and love,” she said. “I mean, it’s heartbreaking. My girls are really suffering, and we’re just trying to get through it. It’s a tough time.”
Dane, who announced his diagnosis in April, has expressed gratitude for his family’s support during this difficult time. In a statement shared with People, he said, “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” He has also asked for privacy for his family during this time. Despite the challenges, Dane has remained optimistic, stating, “Today I’m doing great. I’m approaching this thing one day at a time, and today’s a good day. So, that’s a win.” He has been working with Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, a physician who has been leading his care, and has found hope in her approach to his condition. “I’m very hopeful. I don’t think this is the end of my story,” he said.
Gayheart, who previously filed for divorce from Dane in 2018, filed to dismiss her petition in March, one month before Dane revealed his diagnosis. During her interview, she admitted to struggling with maintaining a positive mindset amid the challenges. “I don’t think I’m at a place yet where I can pull out a positive nugget,” she said. However, she emphasized that the situation has brought her family closer. “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, but yeah, we are closer, but we don’t like the reason why.” She also expressed a desire for a cure for ALS, stating, “I hope they find one soon, because it is just so sad.”