I got Bell’s Palsy on 30th April 2014, exactly one week after my 17th birthday. I believe it was brought on due to a move, stress at college and my struggles to make new friends in a new place. At first, I didn’t want to leave the house as I was embarrassed about it, but with support from friends and family I did, and went to a concert just days after my onset. I was sent home from college on multiple occasions due to extreme headaches and pains in my cheek and jawline. I was very lucky having friends and family around to support me.
Unfortunately, I am one of those who have only had partial recovery since the initial onset. By the time I was 20 years old, I had developed synkinesis and still couldn’t smile properly or raise my eyebrow. Though it still hurt from time to time, and could still upset me, I always picked myself up and got on with things to the best of my ability.
I am a very happy and very positive person, so tried not to let it get me down too much and often made jokes out of myself.
When looking for work, a lot of job descriptions said they wanted someone with a welcoming/big smile which often made me think I couldn’t apply for the job, and I feel I was turned down for jobs due to the condition. I was also scheduled for smile reanimation surgery, and I feel this impacted my job search because most companies would not want to employ someone who has to be off for a month at the very beginning of their employment!
I finally had the smile surgery in 2022, but unfortunately it was unsuccessful. I’ve since learned that out of all the surgeries my surgeon has performed, only two have been entirely unsuccessful – and I’m one of them (which is just my luck, honestly).
During my facial palsy journey, I have tried various treatments including acupuncture, physiotherapy, supplements, Botox® and the Labbé surgery (lengthening temporalis myoplasty). There are likely more things I have tried over the years, but I can’t remember them all. The Botox® helps a lot with my synkinesis and I have this done every three months.
I am due to marry a wonderful man next year who has given me so much love and support – he is my absolute rock. I’ve also become a mum to a beautiful daughter who is one!
I have had a lot going on since my surgery and have now decided to try a second surgery (Cross Facial Nerve Graft) in hopes of finally regaining my smile.
Wish me luck (I need it all!)
Disclaimer: Please note that views expressed are person’s own and should not be considered a recommendation of particular medical treatments, therapies or surgeries. We would always advise you seek advice from a health professional with experience in facial palsy who can assess your individual needs.