Grey's Anatomy star fights tears in emotional update after ALS diagnosis
Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria star Eric Dance was emotional as he gave a candid update on his health following his devastating ALS diagnosis earlier in the year
Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane has tearfully opened up about his struggles following his ALS diagnosis. The actor, 52, revealed his rare health issue in April and has now labelled it "crushing".
The star, also known for his role on Euphoria, appeared on stateside television to provide the emotional update. Speaking to the team on Good Morning America, Eric confessed: "I wake up every day and I'm immediately reminded that this is happening.
As journalist Diane Sawyer candidly told him: "It's not a dream,' he repeated it back. "I don't think this is the end of my story," he went on.
Elsewhere in the interview, a defiant Eric insisted: "I don't feel like this is the end of me." The full interview is set to air on Monday, but in another teaser Eric was seen to be looking emotional as Diane questioned his first thoughts on his diagnosis.
ALS stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It can also be referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, which is a rare motor neurone disease (MND). There is no cure with treatment only available to help ease the pain, which can be severe particularly on and around the nerves and joints.
The condition usually affects those over 50 but can occur at any age and sadly there's no cure. In the UK, it affects 5,000 adults at any one time, according to the MND Association.
Eric previously told PEOPLE: "I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.
'I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week.I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.'
Eric revealed his diagnosis just weeks after calling off his divorce from Rebecca Gayheart. They had initially filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences for their reason. However, they appeared to have a change of heart as Rebecca filed documents to have the petition dismissed in March.
The duo have two children together, daughters Billie Beatrice, 15, and Georgia Geraldine, 13. The couple tied the knot back in 2004 in Las Vegas after a whirlwind romance of 10 months.
As well as his role as Mark 'McSteamy' Sloan in Greys Anatomy, Eric has also starred The Last Ship, the movie Burlesque, Kabul and Bad Boys: Ride or Die. According to IMDb, he will next appear on screen in TV series Countdown and Family Secrets, with the latter being in post-production.
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