Latest on Derick Hougaard: ‘He wants to speak, stand up’

*Note: This is an updated article on former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard

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At the end of last week it was confirmed that Hougaard had come out of a coma and was responding positively to medical personnel and treatment.

The former Springbok had been in a coma for over 10 days due to a respiratory condition, and some reports suggested at the time that he had a 50-50 chance of waking up.

After the recent post to confirm that the 40-year-old had thankfully become responsive, his partner Nádine has now shared another major positive update.

“Derick’s infection count continues to drop, ventilator support is decreasing, his lungs are getting stronger, and his brain is clear,” she wrote on Facebook. “He wants to speak, he wants to stand up. I HONOUR our Father without ceasing for his healing! We look forward to hearing his voice again!”

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With so many people praying for his return to good health, his partner Nádine shared an emotional post last Friday.

“With incredible gratitude we can share with you: Derick has opened his eyes!” she wrote on Facebook.

“His infection count has decreased and he is currently receiving new antibiotics. The carbon dioxide in his blood has decreased quite a bit and his oxygen intake is getting better every day!

“He’s responding to questions and his brain function currently looks good! There are other complications for which he is still receiving treatment and the sedation has been reduced. He can’t talk with the tubes in his throat, he’s in pain and he’s extremely tired, but we are beyond thankful and excited that he opened his eyes!

“We continue to pray for his lungs to heal fully! A thousand thanks for prayer and faith and love! All GLORY to our Heavenly Father! Derick’s family is also grateful for everyone’s care, love and prayers.”

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DERICK HOUGAARD WAS A COLOURFUL CHARACTER ON AND OFF THE FIELD

He played eight Tests for the Springboks, making his debut against Uruguay in Perth during the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

Hougaard played his final Test against the All Blacks in Christchurch in July 2007.

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He scored 69 points for the Springboks thanks to two tries, 13 conversions, 10 penalties and one drop goal and was on the winning side in four of his Tests.

The 40-year-old also made more than 100 appearances for the Bulls between 2002 and 2008 and is known as the “Liefling of Loftus” after performing a crucial role in a golden era for the Pretoria franchise.

Since hanging up his boots, Hougaard has tried his hand at a career in the NFL and took part in a celebrity boxing match against South African musician Francois van Coke.

He has also reportedly been working on a documentary on his life.

The South African website extends its thoughts and wishes to Hougaard.

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