'Straight Outta Compton' actor Russell Andrews reveals ALS diagnosis, says, "I was dropping cups and glasses at night"
Los Angeles, May 18
Hollywood actor Russell Andrews, known for his work in 'Straight Outta Compton' and 'Better Call Saul', has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis - a neurodegenerative disease, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
According to People, the 64-year-old actor shared his diagnosis with the fatal disease publicly on 'The Story Is with Elex Michaelson, where he was accompanied by his fiancee, actress Erica Tazel.
"I am a person living with ALS," Andrews shared.
Speaking on his condition, Andrews added, "I was diagnosed in the late fall of last year. And it's been humbling, but there's... Elex, there's also something in the fact that I walked into a family of very caring people I did not know a year ago -- the cliche family, but they have not let us miss a step in terms of care, the attention, the awareness and the ability to get me here today," as quoted by People.
Opening up about some of the early signs that he suffered, the actor continued, "It was a stressful time. We didn't work for three years, about, and then we had the back-to-back strikes, and so a lot was going on. I was not able to do things that I normally do. I was dropping cups and glasses at night. It felt like things were running up and down my arm at different times, and it was the nerves."
ALS is a neurological disorder that affects the motor neurons. Motor neurons are the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement and breathing. In people with ALS, the brain loses its ability to start and control voluntary movements such as walking, talking, chewing and other functions, as well as breathing. ALS is progressive, meaning symptoms get worse over time, stated the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The way he described dropping cups and glasses at night - that must have been terrifying. And he didn't work for three years, plus the strikes... imagine juggling that with early symptoms. Salute to his courage for sharing this publicly. 🙏
Honestly, the support system he mentioned is really touching. "They have not let us miss a step" - this is what true care looks like. In India too, family and community support is vital for such conditions. I hope he gets access to the best treatment and lives each day with dignity.
It's admirable that he's using his platform to raise awareness. ALS may be rare but it's devastating. I just wish medical research gets more funding globally - in India we have so many patients who can't afford treatment. Maybe his story will inspire more dialogue about neurodegenerative diseases. 💪
Respect to Russell for being so open. I know a family back home in the UK dealing with this - it's a daily battle. The fact that he highlighted the caregiver community is important. They often go unnoticed. Wishing him strength and peace. 🌻
This is a tough read. One thing I appreciate is how he didn't sugarcoat it - "humbling" is the right word. Life can change so suddenly. I hope his acting community rallies around him. From an Indian perspective, we often see celebrities hiding illnesses; this transparency is refreshing and helps reduce stigma.
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