Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert confront the stage of her health crisis
- In December 2023, Hayley Erbert experienced a health crisis necessitating emergency brain surgery.
- One year later, the couple performed again on the same stage to reflect on their journey and express gratitude.
- Derek Hough highlighted the transformation from fear to beauty and emphasized strong themes of love and resilience.
In early December 2023, Hayley Erbert faced a severe health crisis during their Symphony of Dance tour in Washington, D.C. She experienced disorientation due to a cranial hematoma caused by a burst blood vessel, which necessitated an emergency craniectomy. This type of surgery is typically done in urgent situations to alleviate pressure on the brain. After recovering from the craniectomy, she later underwent a second procedure, a cranioplasty, to repair the cranial defects resulting from the initial surgery. One year later, on December 6, 2024, Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert returned to the stage that had witnessed a profound moment in their lives, expressing gratitude for their journey since that time. Hough posted a reflective video on Instagram, highlighting the significance of standing on the same stage where fear and uncertainty had once taken hold. He introduced Dr. Mai, the surgeon who performed Erbert's emergency surgery, and praised him for saving her life. The couple dedicated this special performance to transforming the memories tied to that stage. Hough described this return as an opportunity to change the narrative associated with that space, shifting from a story of fear to one of beauty, faith, and resilience. They expressed their gratitude for the second chance at life and love during a poignant moment shared with their audience. Hough articulated profound reflections on the past year, emphasizing themes of grace and the fragility of life. He described witnessing the strength and elegance with which Erbert navigated her health challenges, expressing amazement at her resilience. Their experience underscored the value of love and unified support during difficult times, especially through the efforts of medical professionals and the supportive community that stood by them. The couple's journey encapsulates a powerful message about cherishing life, embracing love, and recognizing that despite adversities, they have emerged stronger than before.