In December 2023, dancer Hayley Erbert, wife of Derek Hough, was rushed to the hospital during a performance due to bleeding in her skull. She was diagnosed with a cranial hematoma and had to undergo a craniectomy, a surgery that removes a portion of the skull. Since then, the couple has shared updates about her recovery, including her return to dance on the “A Symphony of Dance” tour in April.
Hough had initially shared news of Erbert’s hospitalization on social media, informing fans of her emergency surgery and stable condition. He expressed gratitude for the support and medical care she received, acknowledging the fragility of life and the resilience they both displayed during the ordeal. Despite the challenges, the couple maintained hope and optimism, cherishing the moments and the community that supported them throughout the recovery process.
A craniectomy is a surgery that removes a portion of the skull to address blood pooling around the brain, as seen in Erbert’s case. An intracranial hematoma occurs when a blood vessel in the brain splits, leading to blood pooling in the skull. This often happens after a traumatic event such as a car crash or fall. Erbert underwent two surgeries, including a cranioplasty to repair a bone defect in the skull resulting from previous operations.
Erbert shared her personal journey to recovery in an emotional Instagram video, discussing the challenges and progress she had made since her emergency surgeries. She expressed gratitude for the love and support she received during her hospitalization, highlighting the positivity and strength that helped her through the experience. Hough praised his wife’s perseverance, describing her as a miracle and emphasizing the progress she made each day in her recovery.
Amidst their recovery journey, Erbert and Hough have been taking trips and celebrating milestones, including their first year of marriage. Erbert reflected on the preciousness of life and the importance of spending time with loved ones, as they navigated the challenges and uncertainties that came with her health scare. Despite the obstacles, the couple remained hopeful and grateful for the support and community that played a crucial role in Erbert’s recovery. Their story serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that can emerge in the face of adversity, and the power of love and support in overcoming life’s challenges.
