Eric Dane has had the support of both his loved ones and his former co-stars ever since announcing his battle with ALS.
The beloved Grey's Anatomy alum revealed he was diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disease also known as Lou Gehrig's disease earlier this year, but has continued working and making occasional public appearances when possible.
Per the Mayo Clinic, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, for which there is no cure, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of muscle control, and gets worse over time. ALS life expectancy averages two to five years after diagnosis, but can vary greatly.
© Getty ImagesAmong those to support Eric in the wake of his heartbreaking announcement was none other than Ellen Pompeo, who he worked with for several years on Grey's Anatomy, as Patrick Dempsey's best friend (and brief foe) Dr. Mark Sloan.
People reports that in late January, both Ellen and Eric appeared via pre-taped messages at the ALS Network Champions for Cures & Care Gala held at the Pasadena Convention Center. In her message, Ellen first recalled of Eric: "I remember when he came in as McSteamy and us having instant electric chemistry, and I immediately just fell in love with him."
"As soon as I heard about his diagnosis, I texted him, and I said, 'I'm here if you want to speak,'" she shared, and revealed that her "phone rang 30 seconds later."
© Getty ImagesDetailing the conversation, she further shared that she told Eric she would help him with "whatever you need, however I can help. I love you."
"I'm really proud of you," she added of Dane in her message, maintaining: "I love you so much and I am honored to get to speak about you today."
Patrick is also among some of Eric's former co-stars to share both public and private support. In January, he told Parade he and Eric have been keeping in touch via text to "see how he's doing," and called the McSteamy actor "courageous."
© Getty Images"I think he's been incredibly courageous in the face of this horrible disease. He's such a wonderful human being," he said, adding: "He has such a great sense of humor, and he's so intelligent. I've always enjoyed working and being around Eric."
© WireImageHe nonetheless noted that the situation is "heartbreaking," maintaining: "It really is. For him and for his family. You feel for them when you see this terrible disease and how quickly it attacks the body. But he's bringing a lot of light to that, and he's using his platform in a positive way. I wish him the best."
Eric shares daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, with wife Rebecca Gayheart, who he married in 2004. Though they separated in 2018, they never filed for divorce, and though they are not together, they have remained close, with Rebecca being part of his caregivers
