‘My right side has completely stopped working’: Eric Dane reveals devastating progression of ALS symptoms a year after diagnosis

Actor Eric Dane opened up about his ongoing battle with ALS during a recent appearance on Good Morning America, detailing the progression of symptoms since his initial diagnosis. The 52-year-old Euphoria star, best known to many fans as Grey’s Anatomy’s beloved McSteamy, spoke with Diane Sawyer on Monday, June 16, sharing his journey from the first signs of the condition to his current state.

According to People, the actor first noticed weakness in his right hand, initially dismissing it as fatigue from excessive texting. As the symptoms worsened over the following weeks, Dane sought medical attention, consulting multiple specialists, including hand experts and neurologists, before receiving his diagnosis after nine months of uncertainty.

“I have one functioning arm. My dominant side. My left side is functioning, my right side has completely stopped working,” Dane revealed during the interview. He expressed concern about the deteriorating function in his left side, predicting he might lose control of his left hand within the next few months.

Living with ALS: Understanding the progression and impact

The diagnosis has become an ever-present reality for Dane, who told Sawyer, “I will never forget those three letters. It’s on me the second I wake up. It’s not a dream.” While he currently maintains his ability to walk, he expressed worry about potential future mobility issues affecting his legs.

Dane, who first shared his diagnosis exclusively with PEOPLE in April, has requested privacy for his family during this challenging time. The actor, who was part of Grey’s Anatomy’s original ensemble that has since scattered to various projects, is married to Rebecca Gayheart and has two daughters: 15-year-old Billie Beatrice and 13-year-old Georgia Geraldine.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare degenerative condition affecting the nerve cells in the brain and spine that control muscle movement. The disease typically begins with muscle weakness or twitching in a limb, followed by slurred speech, and progressively affects the patient’s ability to perform basic functions such as speaking, eating, walking, and breathing independently.

According to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, while the average life expectancy after diagnosis is three to five years, some patients can survive for decades. Currently, there is no known cure for ALS, making management of symptoms and support from loved ones crucial aspects of living with the condition. Dane has expressed gratitude for his family’s support, stating that he is “grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”