In a heartfelt Instagram update on Friday, Dancing with the Stars judge Derek Hough expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support following his wife Hayley Erbert’s recent health crisis. The 29-year-old dancer is now on the path to recovery after undergoing an emergency craniectomy.
Derek, 38, began his message by acknowledging the overwhelming love and well-wishes they’ve received during this challenging time. He couldn’t find words to express how thankful they are for the support that has flooded in from friends, fans, and well-wishers alike.
What has struck Derek the most is his wife’s strength and resilience, qualities that have shone brightly in the last 48 hours. Hayley, a fellow dancer and Derek’s partner in life, encountered a health emergency during their Symphony of Dance tour stop in Washington, D.C. The incident led to an emergency craniectomy, a procedure where a portion of the skull is removed to relieve pressure caused by a cranial hematoma, a collection of blood in the skull.
“The kindness that we’ve been shown in this incredibly unfathomable, and life-changing time is immeasurable,” Derek continued. The offers of assistance have been both humbling and appreciated, prompting Derek to express hope that, as a family, they can find ways to pay this kindness forward in the future.
Derek’s sister, Julianne Hough, also took to Instagram to request prayers and positive energy for Hayley’s recovery. Her plea was met with an outpouring of support from fans, family, and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
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This unexpected health scare came to light when Derek shared on Thursday that Hayley had become disoriented after their tour performance in Washington, D.C. She was promptly taken to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a cranial hematoma. The emergency craniectomy was deemed necessary to address the burst blood vessel. The good news is that she is now in stable condition.
Derek expressed gratitude for the first responders and medical personnel who have been caring for Hayley, emphasizing the importance of prayers and positivity during this challenging time.
Support from the dance community, including co-stars Peta Murgatroyd, Jenna Johnson, Allison Holker, and Candace Cameron Bure, poured in through Derek’s Instagram comments. Actress Jennifer Love Hewitt also shared her thoughts, offering ongoing prayers and healing.
Derek and Hayley, who exchanged vows in August after getting engaged in June of the previous year, celebrated their end-of-summer wedding in Monterey County, California. The ceremony took place in a redwood forest, with the couple choosing to marry in front of a mother tree surrounded by smaller trees. Hayley shared at the time, “The symbolism of it was beautiful. We’re here, planting our seeds to grow our family.”
As the couple navigates this challenging chapter, the power of love and support from their community serves as a beacon of hope. The road to recovery may be long, but with the strength they’ve shown as individuals and as a couple, Derek and Hayley are sure to emerge even stronger.
