ANA Discussion Forum

Post-Treatment => Facial Issues => Topic started by: Gloria Nailor on December 30, 2013, 08:20:58 am

Title: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: Gloria Nailor on December 30, 2013, 08:20:58 am
I had my birthday last week and was able to blow out my birthday candles ! I had to pinch together the outside of my lips on the effected side, but I did it.  I am 2.5 years post op and was unable to blow them out for the past two years.  It seems silly, but this was a huge accomplishment for me !  I remember crying for the past two birthdays because I could not perform such a simple task. I still remember how hard it was to see my speech therapsit for the first time after surgery, it just made me realize how much of my facial muscles I had lost.  But I have regained some use slowly over time, so hang in there if you just had surgery and are dealing with adjusting to a paralyzed face. Happy 2014 to all of you : )
Title: Re: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: TexasSprinter on December 30, 2013, 10:41:32 am
Great news, and happy belated birthday!  I hope things continue to improve for you in the new year.
Scott
Title: Re: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: deborahgordon on December 30, 2013, 02:08:03 pm
so happy to hear !!!! it gives us all hope that even after 2 yrs out we can still see improvements.  thank you for posting this really is a big deal so celebrate!!! maybe next year you can do   hands free  I am rooting for you
Title: Re: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: Gloria Nailor on December 30, 2013, 03:13:11 pm
Thanks, guys ----- people who haven't been through this don't understand how huge a deal it is ! I will keep practicing and hopefully next year I will blow them out hands- free : )
Title: Re: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: Kristena on December 30, 2013, 05:04:20 pm
Congratulations! What an accomplishment!

Happy birthday, and have a joyous year ahead.
Title: Re: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: alabamajane on December 30, 2013, 07:31:19 pm
Congrats! It IS a big deal,, something only a few of us understand ,,,

I too am in the same situation , surgery about 4mos. After you and still seeing improvement ,, very exciting since Drs said not to expect much after about 18 mo. He was well pleased at 2 yr annual visit,,
Keep up the good work!! We are all pulling for you as it gives us all hope too!! Happy New Year,, looks
like  it's going to be a good one!! :D. Jane
Title: Re: Blowing out birthday candles
Post by: william5822 on January 03, 2014, 11:20:10 am
Happy birthday!!! We are celebrating with you!