Actor Eric Dane, facing his own battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is actively campaigning for the continuation of the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act. This critical legislation, slated to expire in 2026, provides essential funding for ALS research and facilitates earlier access to potentially life-altering treatments for patients.
Dane, in collaboration with the nonprofit organization I AM ALS, recently spoke with U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell about the importance of preserving this crucial support system for ALS patients. Dane highlighted the often-lengthy diagnostic process, which can unfortunately exclude individuals from participating in vital clinical trials. He emphasized the significant impact of the ACT for ALS initiative in broadening access to these trials and treatments for all affected individuals.
Dane’s personal journey with ALS, which took nine months before he received his diagnosis, which he announced in April, has fueled his determination. Initially expressing anger during a “Good Morning America” interview about the prospect of leaving his daughters, Dane has since channeled his emotions into a proactive fight for his future.
His focus is now on witnessing his daughters’ lives unfold, expressing a desire to be present for their college graduations, weddings, and possibly even the arrival of grandchildren. In a video shared on TikTok, Dane’s words, though slightly slurred, underscore his unwavering resolve to live and fight the disease. Each year, approximately 5,000 individuals in the U.S. are newly diagnosed with ALS, which affects the nerve cells controlling movement and ultimately impacts their ability to speak, move, swallow, and breathe, according to the National ALS Registry.