I am excited to announce that I have just realized that my mouth is moving ON IT'S OWN!! I had the T3 surgery about 2.5 years ago and the way it works is that when you clench your jaw, you get a bit of movement (& really, they don't hope or promise for any more!). I realized last week that I can move my mouth without clenching (or even using my tongue, like I previously did with the 7/12)! We are not talking major movement here - pretty much like I had, maybe a bit more, but at this stage in the game, I am over the moon with ANY movement.
The following is from the response I received from Dr. Byrne:
"Of course I remember you! You are not easy to forget (this is meant as a big compliment).
Thats really cool about your movement.
I have seen such delayed improvements on occasion before. It would be difficult to definitely tease out what is happening, but it is definitely a good thing.
One possibility is that the 7th nerve is awakening a bit. The other is that your central nervous system is rewiring to allow the temporalis to fire independantly of any teeth clenching. The second theory is more likely. Pretty sophisticated electrophysiologic testing / imaging would be required to try and determine which.
Either way, it is hopeful for continued good outcomes.
We are great. My boy is two and has a one year old sister.
Happy thanksgiving...I have thought of you and hoped you are doing well...
P"I have always said God can do anything at anytime using anyone...truly a modern day miracle through medicine!!
Just wanted to share my special Thanksgiving blessing with my AN family!!
K
