In an emotional testament to his advocacy work, the late actor Eric Dane devoted his final months to raising awareness and support for the battle against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). A highlight of his efforts can be seen in the forthcoming documentary titled *Ring Every Bell*, which captures his mission to secure funding and legislative support for the neurodegenerative disease before his untimely passing in February 2026.
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In an exclusive clip from the documentary shared by *PEOPLE*, Dane is seen lobbying lawmakers on Capitol Hill as part of the Push for Progress initiative, a campaign aimed at enhancing treatment options and securing significant federal funding—specifically, a goal of $1 billion. This effort, which he actively participated in following his diagnosis in April 2025, underscores his commitment to not only advancing ALS research but also improving access to critical therapies for patients.
During a pivotal trip to Washington, D.C., in September 2025, Dane addressed lawmakers, poignantly calling for the reauthorization of ACT for ALS (Accelerating Critical Therapies for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). In the documentary’s clip, he is depicted in conversation with Senator Tammy Baldwin from Wisconsin, stressing the necessity of moving the bill forward. “We have a bill that needs to get to the floor for reauthorization, and then it needs to get fully funded,” he urged, highlighting the urgent need for patients relying on investigational therapies.
The film also reveals a lighter side of Dane, who bonded with Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska, reminiscing about his family’s connection to the state and his childhood fishing memories—such as boasting about catching a 72-pound salmon when he was just 12 years old. This engaging balance of personal anecdotes and serious advocacy illustrates Dane’s multifaceted approach to his final mission.
Dane, renowned for his roles in *Grey’s Anatomy* and *Euphoria*, succumbed to respiratory failure, with ALS cited as a contributing factor. His struggle with the condition was marked by its severe impacts, as ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, leads to progressive loss of muscle control and eventual paralysis. Symptoms often start with limb weakness and twitching, before progressing to impairments in speech, swallowing, and breathing.
The reality of ALS is stark, with most patients living only three to five years post-diagnosis. However, Dane’s fervent advocacy reflects a hopeful push for scientific advancement in treatment and an improvement in life quality for those affected. With no existing cure for ALS, the urgency for legislative support and funding is critical.
Though he passed away before witnessing the final edit of *Ring Every Bell*, Dane was reportedly moved by a rough cut of the documentary in February. A press release from I AM ALS, the documentary’s producer, revealed that he encouraged the production team with the words, “Keep going.” His steadfast commitment to raising awareness and funding for ALS echoes throughout the film, serving as a rallying cry for ongoing advocacy in the community.
*Ring Every Bell* is set to premiere on May 18 across I AM ALS’s website and social media platforms, aiming to inspire both policymakers and the public to take action in support of Stanford’s mission. By sharing his experience and pushing the boundaries of ALS awareness, Dane leaves behind a powerful legacy that will continue to resonate in the fight against this debilitating disease. Through films like *Ring Every Bell*, his vision for a brighter future for ALS patients is given a platform that could lead to vital changes in treatment and policy.