Eric Dane passed away in February 2026 from ALS, and now his widow, Rebecca Gayheart, is desperate to continue his mission. The Grey’s Anatomy alum wanted to raise awareness, and now that he’s gone, Gayheart is reaching out to others. So, what exactly does she need help with? Keep reading for more details.
Eric Dane Wanted To Raise Awareness About The Disease
It was heartbreaking when Eric Dane revealed that he had ALS. He revealed that he had the disease in 2025, which was shocking to everyone who had followed his career. Dane had made waves on Grey’s Anatomy, so learning he had ALS was stunning. Then, within a year, he passed away, leaving behind two daughters and a wife, Rebecca Gayheart. Yet, he and Gayheart had split in 2018, but she dismissed the divorce when he learned he had ALS. Dane had a partner at the time of his death, but he really wanted to find a cure for the disease.
Now, Dane’s widow is asking for help with continuing his mission. On September 11th, she took to social media to write this:
“You might remember Eric’s work for @iamalsorg. He worked hard to raise awareness for the ACT for ALS Bill, which could provide $500 million for ALS research, treatment access and hope for families battling this disease. Please help us make sure that Congress does not continue to delay the passing of this bill.”
She then shared a link and asked all of her followers to click and sign so that they could get their voices heard.
Rebecca Gayheart noted that they had until Sunday, September 13th, to get as many signatures as possible. Finally, she added that this getting passed “would mean the world to my family.” Eric Dane started to struggle just a year and a half before he revealed his diagnosis. He was experiencing symptoms but had no idea what it all meant.
Still Working
Eric Dane continued to work and leave a legacy. He starred in Euphoria, with the final season airing after he passed away. Additionally, he will be in a film called Family Secrets being released posthumously. So, he will still be a presence despite not being here on Earth. Hopefully, his widow and friends can keep fighting to finish his ALS work that was not completed before he passed. It was a sad ending, too soon, and far too young.
Have you been following Rebecca Gayheart after Eric Dane’s death, and do you appreciate her carrying on his work? Finally, were you a fan of his? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.