Derek also reflected on wife Hayley Erbert Hough’s difficult medical journey: a 2022 car crash that left her with stitches, a later performance emergency from a burst blood vessel and a subsequent brain bleed that required removal of about 40% of her skull and a later implant. The couple also endured a miscarriage the following year. Derek framed Everley as a joyful milestone after those challenges.
Asked whether he hopes Everley will dance, Derek recommended dance for its discipline, community and body awareness — benefits he believes suit everyone, whether or not they become professional dancers.