Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert Hough Return to Stage Following Life-Threatening Incident

Derek Hough and his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, recently performed on the stage where she faced a near-fatal accident. In 2023, Hayley suffered a cranial hematoma, leading to a critical emergency surgery.

Hayley made an inspiring return on the same stage, following a near loss of her life.

For over a month, Hayley has joined Derek on his 'Dance for the Holidays' tour. On November 24, they performed at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. This venue was the location of her medical emergency during a 2023 show that required immediate intervention.

"It's a very special night to be back here on this stage, one year later," Derek expressed, standing next to Hayley and fellow dancers. He shared this in a video on Instagram, posted on December 6. "We are transforming this stage’s story into something beautiful."

In December 2023, during a performance on the same stage, Hayley became disoriented. She was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a cranial hematoma caused by a burst blood vessel.

Hayley underwent an emergency craniectomy. Surgeons removed part of her skull to relieve brain pressure. Later, she had a subsequent surgery to implant a device.

During the November performance, Derek welcomed Dr. Jeffrey Mai, the surgeon who saved Hayley's life. Dr. Mai shared a poignant hug with Hayley on stage.

"This was the man who was here at 3 a.m. to save Hayley's life," Derek stated. "He provided us comfort and love, and we are profoundly thankful. Please give it up for Dr. Mai."

In their Instagram post, Derek and Hayley reflected on the past year.

"It's been exactly one year since Hayley almost lost her life," they shared. "We returned to the same place that once brought us uncertainty and fear. A moment when I stood frozen, praying for a miracle. Tonight, we changed that story."

They added, "We transformed it from fear to beauty, uncertainty to faith, and despair to triumph. Having Dr. Mai with us made it even more powerful. We thank him for more time, memories, and love."

Hayley marked her official return to dancing in April by performing with Derek in Melbourne, Florida, after the tour was paused. She also returned to 'Dancing with the Stars' in October, delivering an emotional dance alongside Derek to "Beautiful Things" by Benson Boone.

"I’m so grateful to Hayley," Derek expressed. "Her resilience, strength, and elegance through this challenging time are truly remarkable. I am in awe every day."

Derek and Hayley concluded, "One year later, back on that same stage, we recognize: life is fragile, love is everything, and we are stronger than ever."

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