At the Creative Arts Emmys on January 7th, Derek Hough, renowned choreographer and judge on “Dancing With the Stars,” delivered a poignant and tearful speech as he accepted the award for Outstanding Choreography. However, his victory was more than just a recognition of his talent; it was a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Hayley Erbert, and her courageous battle with health challenges.
In an emotional moment that moved the audience, Hough reflected on the profound journey he and Erbert had experienced over the past month. “Exactly a month ago, I was in the hospital. This is a different moment,” Hough revealed, his voice filled with emotion. He recounted the life-changing event that reminded him of the importance of cherishing every moment.
Erbert’s health scare unfolded during the couple’s Symphony of Dance tour performance in Washington, D.C., on December 6th. Following a sudden bout of disorientation, Erbert underwent emergency surgery, which marked the beginning of a challenging period for the couple. Despite the initial setback, Erbert displayed remarkable resilience, undergoing a second successful surgery on her skull days later.
As Hough accepted his Emmy, his fourth in total, he dedicated the prestigious award to his “beautiful wife,” expressing profound admiration for her strength and courage throughout the ordeal. “Your strength and your courage this whole month have been unbelievable,” he declared, his words a testament to the unwavering support and love they share.
Amidst the trials of December, Hough and Erbert found solace and gratitude in the love and support of their friends, family, and fans. In a joint message shared on Instagram while celebrating Christmas, the couple expressed profound appreciation for the precious gift of life and the love they share. “Cherishing the greatest gift of all,” they wrote, urging others to hold their loved ones close and treasure every moment.
Hough’s emotional speech at the Creative Arts Emmys served as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love to overcome adversity. Through their shared journey, Hough and Erbert have inspired countless individuals with their unwavering courage, resilience, and love for each other.
As they continue to navigate life’s challenges together, Hough and Erbert serve as a beacon of hope and strength, demonstrating the profound impact of love and support in overcoming life’s obstacles. Their journey is a testament to the enduring power of love, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring others to cherish every moment and embrace the gift of life with gratitude and love.
