Why Eric Dane Uses a Wheelchair: Latest Update on the Actor’s ALS Battle

Actor Eric Dane was recently seen using a wheelchair during a rare public outing, months after revealing his diagnosis with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). The 52-year-old “Grey’s Anatomy” alum appeared at an airport in Washington, D.C., on September 30, where he greeted fans and shared a hopeful message about his ongoing fight against the progressive neurodegenerative disease.

The outing comes as Dane continues to speak openly about living with ALS and using his platform to push for better support, faster diagnosis, and access to clinical trials for patients battling the disease.

Eric Dane’s Health Journey and ALS Diagnosis

Dane went public with his ALS diagnosis in April 2025, sharing that the condition had impacted his mobility and strength. In a statement to People magazine at the time, he thanked his family for their support and asked for privacy as he adjusted to life with the illness. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

By June, Dane detailed his symptoms during an appearance on “Good Morning America,” explaining that weakness began in his right hand before spreading further. “I have one functioning arm. My left side is working, but my right side — which is my dominant side — has completely stopped,” he said. He added that his left arm had begun weakening and expressed concern about losing strength in his legs as well.

On September 30, Dane was filmed at the airport using a wheelchair, a visible sign of ALS progression. When approached by a fan, he simply said, “Keep the faith, man,” showing determination despite the challenges.

Dane’s Advocacy and Fight for ALS Awareness

Beyond his personal health journey, Dane has become an advocate for those living with ALS. Just a day before his airport sighting, a video surfaced of him meeting with California Congressman Eric Swalwell and members of the I AM ALS foundation. During their discussion, Dane spoke passionately about the need to speed up ALS diagnosis and increase access to clinical trials, which can help patients receive cutting-edge treatment.

“I wanna ring every bell,” Dane said, emphasizing his desire to fight for his future and his family. “I have two daughters at home. I wanna see them graduate college, get married, maybe have grandkids. I’m gonna fight until the last breath on this one.” Swalwell responded by pledging to advocate for federal funding to support ALS research and better treatment access.

Dane’s wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, also shared how the family is coping. Speaking to People, she described the journey as “heartbreaking” but said they were relying on therapy and love to stay strong for their daughters, Billie and Georgia. “We’re just trying to get through it with dignity, grace, and love,” she said.

Eric Dane’s wheelchair use marks a visible milestone in his ALS battle, but the actor continues to remain hopeful and active in raising awareness for the disease. His courage, advocacy, and family’s support highlight both the personal and public impact of living with ALS.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Eric Dane using a wheelchair now?

Eric Dane’s ALS has progressed, causing significant weakness in his arms and legs, making a wheelchair necessary for mobility.

Q2: When did Eric Dane reveal his ALS diagnosis?

He announced his ALS diagnosis publicly in April 2025 through a statement to People magazine.

Q3: What message did Eric Dane share with fans?

During his recent airport outing, Dane told fans, “Keep the faith, man,” showing optimism amid his battle.

Q4: How is Eric Dane’s family coping with his illness?

His wife Rebecca Gayheart says the family is working with therapists and focusing on love and hope while supporting their daughters.

Q5: What is Eric Dane advocating for?

He is pushing for faster ALS diagnosis and broader access to clinical trials through meetings with lawmakers and advocacy groups.