Rebecca Gayheart is advocating for her estranged husband, Eric Dane, following his recent diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disorder. In a personal essay published in The Cut on December 29, Gayheart shared insights into their complex relationship and revealed that Dane now receives care from “24/7 nurses.” Securing this level of care, however, proved challenging.
In her essay, Gayheart recounted her struggles with the insurance company, stating, “With the nurses, the woman from his insurance said to me, ‘You can keep applying, and I’ll keep denying.'” She described her determination to ensure Dane received the necessary support, saying, “I made it my mission. I was ‘locked in,’ as the kids would say.” After two appeals, Gayheart successfully obtained approval for the care.
Complicated Relationship and Family Focus
Despite being separated for eight years and having filed for divorce in 2018, Gayheart dismissed the divorce proceedings in March 2025, shortly before Dane publicly shared his diagnosis. The couple shares two teenage daughters and maintains a familial bond. Gayheart emphasized in her essay, “Our love may not be romantic, but it’s a familial love.” She expressed her commitment to support Dane, stating, “Eric knows that I am always going to want the best for him.”
Gayheart detailed the logistics of Dane’s care, which consists of 21 shifts per week. When she is unable to cover a shift, she coordinates with his friends to fill in. She recalled a recent instance where she could only manage four hours of coverage for a twelve-hour shift. “I thought, I can’t believe I had to ask someone to do this,” she said, but was grateful for the support she received.
Community Support and Personal Reflections
Despite some friends and acquaintances distancing themselves during this challenging time, Gayheart expressed understanding towards their absence. “Most people are not great in this situation because it’s so heavy. It’s not easy for people,” she noted. Her focus remains on setting an example for her daughters, teaching them the importance of support and love in difficult circumstances.
As Dane navigates the realities of ALS, Gayheart’s ongoing efforts highlight the challenges families face when dealing with serious illnesses. Her commitment to ensuring that Dane receives appropriate care speaks to the profound complexities of their relationship and the enduring bond they share for the sake of their family.
