Professional dancer Hayley Erbert recently shared a heartfelt video on Instagram, opening up about her journey of hospitalization and recovery. Sitting alongside her husband, Derek Hough, she expressed her gratitude for being alive and acknowledged the tremendous support she received from her loved ones and fans.
Erbert, 29, admitted that the past two months had been quite a rollercoaster ride, filled with varying emotions. However, she emphasized that she was making progress every day, both physically and emotionally. Despite experiencing difficult moments, she remained optimistic about her recovery.
Reflecting on her first surgery in December 2023, Erbert expressed how genuinely touched she was by the outpouring of love and support from people around her. The dancer fought back tears as she thanked everyone from the bottom of her heart for their well-wishes and encouragement.
In the video, Erbert proudly showcased her new buzz cut and the scar that adorned the center of her head. She playfully mentioned the 'new year gifts' she had received, including a sac of fluid on the side of her face, a scar, and a new skull. With a renewed perspective on life, she urged her followers to cherish their loved ones, emphasizing the unpredictability of life.
Derek Hough, known for his role as a judge on 'Dancing With the Stars,' also spoke about the couple's tumultuous year. Just months after their August 2023 wedding, Erbert underwent emergency surgery, leaving the newlyweds facing unexpected challenges. Hough praised his wife's resilience and strength throughout the ordeal, highlighting her ability to accept the situation with grace.
On December 7, Hough revealed that his wife had undergone emergency brain surgery after experiencing disorientation. The diagnosis was a cranial hematoma caused by a burst blood vessel, requiring an emergency craniectomy. Mayo Clinic defines a cranial hematoma as a collection of blood that forms under the skull or within brain tissue, often resulting from a brain injury.
Erbert underwent a second surgery shortly afterward to replace the portion of her skull removed during the craniectomy. Despite the severity of her condition, she was able to return home just in time for Christmas, marking a significant milestone in her recovery.
Although the couple has not disclosed the cause of Erbert's condition, it is worth noting that they were involved in a car accident a year prior. In December 2022, Erbert shared on social media that she sustained injuries, including four stitches on her eyebrows, after an accident on an icy road. The incident involved a steep hill and a tree, causing anxiety about sliding off the mountainside.
Hayley Erbert's journey of survival and recovery serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the strength of the human spirit. As she continues to progress, it is evident that she appreciates every day she is granted and cherishes the unwavering support she receives.
