Bok emerges from coma after 11 days

NEWS: Springbok Derick Hougaard has emerged from a coma after 11 days.

This nugget of good news was delivered by the 40-year-old’s partner, singer Nádine.

Hougaard was admitted to the hospital with inflammation of the lungs on Saturday, June 10 and has been in intensive care at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria since.

Nádine, in a social media post, on Thursday revealed that Hougaard has finally opened his eyes.

“[It is] with incredible gratitude [that] we can share with you: Derick has opened his eyes!” she said in the Facebook post.

The singer added that his infection count has decreased and he is currently receiving new antibiotics.

“The carbon dioxide in his blood has decreased a lot and his oxygen intake is getting better every day.

“He is responding to questions and his brain function is looking good right now.”

However, there are other ‘complications’ for which he is still receiving treatment, while the sedation has also been reduced.

“He cannot speak with the tubes in his throat,” she said, adding: “He is in pain and he is terribly tired, but we are indescribably grateful and excited that he has opened his eyes!

“We are still praying for his lungs to fully heal.”

Hougaard made more than 100 appearances for the Bulls in all competitions between 2002 and 2008 and was dubbed the ‘Liefling van Loftus’ for his crucial role in a golden era for the Pretoria side.

He also played eight Test matches for the Springboks and was part of the 2003 World Cup side that progressed to the quarterfinals of that year’s showpiece.