Actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles on “Grey’s Anatomy” and HBO’s “Euphoria,” has announced that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rare and progressive neurodegenerative disease.

“I have been diagnosed with ALS,” Dane, 52, shared in a statement to People magazine. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.” Despite the heavy diagnosis, Dane expressed his gratitude for the support surrounding him and his determination to continue his career. “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week,” he added. “I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.”

ALS, often called Lou Gehrig’s disease, progressively attacks the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscles. As the disease advances, individuals may lose the ability to walk, speak, eat, and even breathe on their own. There’s no cure for ALS, and people usually live three to five years after diagnosis, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. However, some patients can live for decades.

Dane’s journey is strengthened by his close-knit family. He and his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, share two daughters, Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. Gayheart recently spoke about their relationship, revealing that their bond has grown even stronger in recent months. “We are best of friends. We are really close. We are great co-parents,” Gayheart told E! News. “We really figured out the formula to staying a family, and I think our kids are benefiting greatly from it and we are as well.”

Reflecting on their time apart and their ongoing relationship, Gayheart added, “It wasn’t a failure. It was a huge success. We were married for—I mean, we are still married—but together for 15 years and we had two beautiful kids, so I think that’s a successful relationship, and that’s how we look at it.”

In the midst of this personal health battle, Dane remains committed to his work and the future. His courage echoes the perseverance of other well-known figures who have faced ALS, including Stephen Hawking and musician John Driskell Hopkins.

As Dane steps into this challenging chapter, he does so with a spirit of resilience and the unwavering support of his family. For many facing trials like ALS, faith, hope, and the love of family become essential pillars of strength — a reminder that even in life’s hardest seasons, we are never truly walking alone.