Hayley Erbert Expresses Pride for Derek Hough's Emmy Win Amidst Challenging Month

Hayley Erbert joyously celebrates her husband, Derek Hough, following his recent triumph at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards. The Dancing with the Stars judge secured the outstanding choreography award for variety or reality programming on the ABC series, marking his fourth Emmy win. Despite facing a tumultuous month, Erbert, 29, took to Instagram to express her admiration for Hough's dedication and brilliance.

 

Returning home after a challenging period, Erbert shared, "What a way to be welcomed home after such an unfathomable month. @derekhough, you continue to amaze me with your drive, brilliance, and commitment to excellence." She further conveyed her excitement about being part of his journey and eagerly anticipating the future. Erbert concluded her heartfelt message with, "I love you more than anything and am so unbelievably proud of you, today and always. ♥️"

 

Accompanying her touching caption, Erbert shared a carousel of three snapshots featuring the couple before her recent health scare. In December, Erbert faced a cranial hematoma diagnosis, resulting from a burst blood vessel, leading to emergency surgery.

 

During the Emmy acceptance speech, Hough emotionally acknowledged his wife's strength during her recovery. Reflecting on the life-changing moment a month ago when he was in the hospital, he tearfully expressed, "A month ago was a life-changing moment that reminded me to really cherish and savor every moment." Hough dedicated his Emmy win to his wife, stating, "Your strength and your courage this whole month has been unbelievable. You inspired me every day."

 

The couple's challenging month began during their Symphony of Dance tour, where Erbert underwent an emergency craniectomy due to the cranial hematoma. Following the initial emergency surgery on December 7, Erbert underwent a successful follow-up cranioplasty to repair her skull.

 

Despite the health challenges, Erbert and Hough shared a heartwarming Instagram post, celebrating their first holiday season together as a married couple on December 25. The caption read, "Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! 🎄 Cherishing the greatest gift of all, the precious gift of life and the love we share. Hold your loved ones close and treasure every moment. ♥️."

 

The couple, who have been together since 2015, exchanged vows in California in August after getting engaged in June 2022. As they continue to navigate life's ups and downs, their enduring love and commitment shine through. Stay tuned for the 75th annual Primetime Emmy Awards, broadcasting live on Fox at 8 p.m. ET this January 15, and catch up on PEOPLE's comprehensive coverage of the event.