Former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard has opened up on his recovery process following a health scare earlier this year.
In June, Hougaard was rushed to Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria where he spent three weeks in intensive care. He battled respiratory pneumonia and was placed in a coma for 13 days.
Two months after waking up from the coma, Hougaard acknowledged in a radio interview with Jacaranda FM that the recovery process remains a long and arduous one.
"I look a lot better than I feel," he said. "I still feel a little weak and I am always out of breath. The tube from the ventilator left a bit of damage, but all in all, I am feeling good."
The period spent in the coma remains a blur to Hougaard, and he admitted to feeling unsettled at the realisation that doctors estimate only a 50% survival rate for similar cases.
"Over the past two weeks it has really hit me that I could have died, so I am processing that. I think it was definitely a lot worse for other people than what it was for me. It's terrifying thinking how this affected my family, my parents, my kids and (girlfriend) Nádine."
As Hougaard continues his recovery journey at home, he said he was deeply moved by the outpouring of love from fans.
"Friends flew in from overseas and Cape Town to pray outside the hospital. Witnessing this level of care makes you feel cherished and reminds you that people still want you in their lives.
"To everyone, wherever you are, thank you for your prayers. The doctors call my recovery a miracle, but I believe it's the power of those prayers," he added. "Thank you for standing by me from my first day at Loftus to now. Thank you for showing your care and support. I truly appreciate it."
Hougaard, meanwhile, also announced a
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