Friday, October 30, 2009

Bell's Palsy: The Final Chapter

If you are a long time reader, you might have been looking for an update on my Bell's Palsy. I blogged about it last July and last November, but haven't really updated you all since then.

To be honest, I think I have been waiting to announce that the Bell's is completely cured and my face has returned to look the way it always has. But it turns out that I am in the 10% of people who get most of their facial nerves back, but not all of them. It h
as taken me a long time to be ready to talk about it simply because there has been sort of a grieving process. I never thought that I'd grieve so much over my "old" facial expressions!

There is good news, though. You'd probably never notice I had Bell's Palsy unless you knew me well before and noticed that my previously animated expressions are a bit toned down now. If you'd never met me, you probably wouldn't notice that my right eyebrow doesn't move and my right upper lip doesn't move much either. Thankfully, though, I've had months to work on correcting my smile in the mirror and for photos. I am happy to report that it's barely visible anymore...especially for photos, which is where I really noticed it most. I'd say that's real progress.

I appreciate all of you who have shared your Bell's stories, prayers, and encouragement. I hope that by following my story, maybe you'll understand what it means when a friend or relative tells you they have Bell's Palsy. You can tell them that you know someone who had it, lived through it, and is completely healthy and happy afterwards.


A friend took this picture on my birthday and I think it's the best post-Bell's picture so far.

4 comments:

Erin Wood said...

Nicole,

I think you look absolutely radiant in this photo! You are a tres chic momma, and I really admire you for that. I appreciate your attitude toward your recovery and the contentment that you've chosen with the changes in your life - it really demonstrates an underlying, deep-seated trust in God. Keep it up!

Kevin and Keri Sheckler said...

Thank you for sharing, Nicole. But no doubt it has always been the beauty of your heart that shines through. It keeps getting brighter.
Love you friend.

Merea said...

Thanks for sharing this. It has encouraged me in many ways. You are gorgeous!

petro family said...

You are so beautiful in so many ways..including externally, Nicole! You just radiate and I love this photo of you and Jason. SO sweet! I have thought of you so much and I am praying for you! much love, h