I was born in South Africa in 1977. A few days after my birth my parents noticed that one side of my face was more droopy.
The technology was not as advanced and doctors were unsure what caused me to smile uniquely – I call it unique, because there is nothing wrong, it is just different.
I went through junior and senior school always worrying about my face, kids being cruel and making fun of me. I had a good set of friends, and they were very encouraging and more kids accepted me for who I am.
I had plastic surgery done in 1995 to try and make my face a bit more equal. During my first operation, the surgeon decided not to take a muscle from my leg and instead took a muscle from my head and twisted it around and into my face. This helped to make my face more symmetrical. The team of doctors also decided against the metal piece in my eye, as this might cause more problems walking through metal detectors and with eye infections.
Today, I’m happily married with a supportive husband and daughter. I learned to accept myself for who I am. I have a great social life and great friends, and they don’t seem to mind my face being uniquely different. This is my normal. I’ve never known what it’s like to smile like the rest of the world. I always thought that I might be the one and only with a unique smile, until I saw Justin Bieber and started to do investigations.
With my positive attitude and supportive family and friends, I realise that more people accept me for who I am. I’m confident and my uniqueness from an early age has made me a stronger person.
As a teenager I always wanted to be a company director and, after a successful career, I have managed to get my dream job. I have a good relationship with all my fellow colleagues.
I’m a very positive person and although it was challenging growing up, I have made a conscious decision to be a kind, friendly and helpful person, and this has gotten me through life. Focusing on what I have and just smiling like any other person makes me feel happy.
I want to make a difference and make people aware and let us be the new normal!
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.
Last reviewed: 14-07-2023 || Next review due: 14-07-2026