Eric Dane diagnosed with ALS, family relies on professional support

Eric Dane, the 52-year-old actor known for roles on Grey's Anatomy and The Last Ship, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in April, and his family says they are relying on professional support as they adjust to life with the progressive neurological disease. His wife, Rebecca Gayheart, 54, told attendees at a recent charity event that she and their two daughters, Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, are "taking it day by day" with the help of therapists as they cope with the diagnosis.

Dane announced his diagnosis in April and asked for privacy while expressing gratitude for his family's support. He was set to reprise a recurring role on a television drama and had begun filming scenes in mid-April. In a June interview he described the daily reality of living with ALS, saying, "I wake up every day, and I'm immediately reminded that this is happening. It's not a dream." He has since been public about his symptoms and their progression.

The actor recounted that his first sign was weakness in his right hand, which he initially attributed to overuse. After consultations with specialists, he received the ALS diagnosis. Dane has said his right, dominant side has lost function and...