Eric Dane, the Grey’s Anatomy actor publicly battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is now receiving around-the-clock professional care at home, thanks to the dedication of his ex-wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and a team of nurses.
A Hard-Fought Win for Full-Time Care
Rebecca Gayheart, 54, detailed her journey navigating the U.S. health-care system in a deeply personal essay published in The Cut, explaining how she battled with insurance companies to secure 24/7 nursing support for Eric Dane.
After multiple denials, she appealed the decisions repeatedly and ultimately succeeded in getting approval for around-the-clock home care.
Gayheart described the process as overwhelming, noting that she became fully “locked in” on ensuring Dane received the support he needed despite bureaucratic hurdles.
What ‘24/7 Care’ Looks Like
According to her account, Dane’s nursing care is structured into 21 shifts per week.
There are occasions when shifts aren’t covered by hired professionals, and in those moments — Gayheart steps in herself.
She shared that recently, a 12-hour shift went partially uncovered; while she could only cover four hours due to commitments with their daughters, she reached out to two of Dane’s friends for help, and they stepped in admirably.
Beyond Health Care: Family Togetherness
Gayheart and Dane — who legally remain married despite separating in 2018 — are committed to co-parenting their daughters, Billie and Georgia, and have remained closely connected through Dane’s illness.
They live just minutes apart and often share meals and family moments, striving to make the most of their time together.
Her essay makes clear that while their relationship is “complicated” and not romantic, there’s a deep familial love and mutual commitment to support one another, especially for the sake of their children.
Reflections on Support and Community
Gayheart also acknowledged a shift in her personal relationships since taking on Dane’s caregiving needs, noting that some friends have stepped up while others have drifted away amid the emotional weight of the situation.
She emphasized that it’s not easy for people to stay present through such hardship and said she holds no grudges toward those who have struggled to remain involved.
Her candid reflections underscore not only the logistical challenges of long-term care but the emotional reality of rallying family, friends and resources around someone facing a devastating illness.
