Battle for survival for former Bok flyhalf
Well wishes continue to pour in from across the country after it was made known that Derick Hougaard is in a Pretoria hospital's ICU ward.
Former Springbok rugby player Derick Hougaard has been hospitalised, reportedly after not waking for the past six days.
According to media reports, the 40-year-old spent the past week unconscious in intensive care in a Pretoria hospital.
Hougaard was last conscious on June 9 after reporting to be feeling nauseous that morning.
Affectionately referred to as the ‘Liefling of Loftus‘ (Sweetheart of Loftus Versfeld Stadium), Hougaard played over 100 matches for the Bulls from 2002–2008.
Tributes and well wishes have begun pouring in for the 2007 Super Rugby title winner including from renowned pop singer, Nadine.
“Thank you for every prayer and every person who speaks life over Derick,” Nadine said via Facebook.
“Six days now in the intensive care unit. This is very difficult. However, the doctors and nurses are wonderful and the Father is working through their hands.
“I pray that his lungs will fulfil their purpose in creation again – to just breathe,” Nadine concluded.
Hougaard’s Springboks debut was at the 2003 Rugby World Cup and he earned eight caps over his international career.
He also played for Leicester Tigers and Saracens in England and even had a try in the NFL before retiring in 2012.
Blue Bulls president Willem Strauss shared his well wishes with Caxton Local Media.
“On behalf of the Blue Bulls, we are very worried and keep our fingers crossed that Derick will recover soon. He is a Blue Bulls legend and we pray for him to get better,” Strauss said.
Our thoughts very much with the family and friends of former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard who is reportedly fighting for his life in a Pretoria hospital.
The 40-year-old played for the Blue Bulls, as well as @Saracens and @LeicesterTigers in the Premiership. pic.twitter.com/miUfu0Ed4a
— Progressive Rugby (@ProgressiveRug) June 17, 2023
Gebede asb mense vir Derick Hougaard wat baie siek in die hospitaal is . Mag hy spoedig herstel pic.twitter.com/zVcaDNhYS4
— Kobus (@BulletjieKobus) June 17, 2023
Ons almal in 🇿🇦 Bid vir #DerrickHoughard vanaand,wat 6 dae gelede aan die slaap geraak het,en nog nie wakker geword het nie,en tans veg vir sy lewe!🙏 @BlueBullsRugby @Springboks @DerickHougaard pic.twitter.com/JhLZrRgVQg
— Corné du Preez (@cornedupreez1) June 16, 2023
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