Eric Dane is engaging in his initial sit-down interview since disclosing his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition that has touched countless lives. On June 12th, Thursday, the 52-year-old actor made an appearance in a tantalizing preview for an upcoming segment on Good Morning America, where he opened up about his health journey with the esteemed Diane Sawyer. "I awaken each day, instantly reminded of this reality," he confessed to Sawyer. "It's no fleeting dream."
The poignant 30-second snippet captures Dane and Sawyer holding hands, deeply engaged in a conversation about life post-diagnosis. It culminates in the Euphoria star emotionally breaking down, offering a poignant preview of the heart-wrenching discussion ahead. "I firmly believe that this is not the conclusion of my story. I don't perceive it as the end of me," he affirmed.
In April, Dane exclusively shared his ALS diagnosis with PEOPLE magazine. "I have been diagnosed with ALS," he revealed. "I am deeply grateful to have my cherished family by my side as we embark on this new chapter."
The actor is married to Rebecca Gayheart, and together they are the proud parents of two children, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. "I humbly request your understanding and privacy for my family and me during this challenging period," he requested of PEOPLE.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a rare and devastating degenerative condition that progressively paralyzes the muscles. Patients often initially experience twitching or weakness in a limb, followed by slurred speech. According to the Mayo Clinic, as the disease attacks the nerve cells in the brain and spine responsible for muscle movement, individuals gradually lose their ability to speak, eat, walk, and breathe independently.
Regrettably, there is no cure for ALS, and the average lifespan post-diagnosis is typically three to five years, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. However, there are instances where patients have lived for decades.
