On Friday, May 23, formerDancing With the Starstroupe memberHayley Erbertand her husband, Dancing With the Stars pro-turned judgeDerek Hough, asked their families, friends and fansto send healing thoughts to Erbert's stepdad, who was undergoing a "high-risk surgery" to remove a large tumor and other cancerous cells from his torso. Thecomments on their postare full of theDancing With the Starsfamily — pros, contestants and fans alike — offering good thoughts and prayers. But a special one came in fromRunway to Hope, a non-profit that raises money for families facing the heartbreaking journey of pediatric cancer. "Runway to Hope fosters collaborative efforts among corporations, local businesses, and philanthropists to not only raise funds and awareness, but also bring new programs and initiatives to the pediatric cancer community, all while providing direct support and aid primarily to Central Florida children and their families impacted through the Family Assistance Program,"the website explains. RELATED: DWTS' Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert 'Could Use Every Prayer' Amid Family Crisis On his birthday, Hough was actuallyin Florida hosting Runway to Hope's annual fundraising gala. So when Runway to Hope saw Erbert's emotional plea about her stepfather,the organization made a post that reads, "Last week @derekhough stood alongside our families. Today, we do the same. Sending healing thoughts and prayers." Erbert's post was particularly poignant after what she went through in late 2023 when she experienced a cranial hematoma and had to have an emergency craniectomy. She had to re-learn how to walk, and they weren't sure she would ever dance again, but she and Houghperformed a beautiful dance togetherin theDancing With the Starsballroom last fall to celebrate her remarkable recovery. 🪩SIGN UP for our Dancing with the Stars newsletter to get access to exclusive news, interviews, songs, recaps & more🪩 After the performance, Hough wrote on Instagram, "Last night was such a powerful, full-circle moment for us. To be back in the ballroom, performing together again. Feels like an absolute miracle. There were moments when it seemed impossible that we'd ever get back to this place. "We're so thankful to the doctors and nurses who saved her life, our family and friends, and to all the people whose love and support poured in during this time. Your care has been such a huge part of her recovery. "Last night was just the beginning of sharing our story, and we can't wait to take you along on the rest of this journey. We love you all so much, and we're just overwhelmed with gratitude." Cancer Nonprofit Stands With DWTS' Hayley Erbert and Derek Hough in Time of Needfirst appeared on Parade on May 23, 2025
