Peer Support For
Bell’s Palsy
You don’t have to handle BP alone. Join the Bell’s Palsy Support Partner Program.
Individual Support
Support comes in many different forms. Talking with a Peer Support Partner allows you to talk honestly and openly with someone who will not judge or make excuses, but have similar experiences and emotions regarding living with BP.
Pregnancy, PostPartum
There is never a good time for Bell’s Palsy, but one might argue while you are pregnant or just delivered your baby, there couldn’t be worse timing. Talk with a BP Partner who has had the same experience and can help you to cope.
Partner, Family, Friends
If you know someone in your life with Bell’s Palsy, you may be struggling with what to say or do to help. Talking with a Bell’s Palsy Support Partner can help you navigate a very physically and emotionally difficult time for your loved one.
Hello! I’m Andrea
Bell’s Palsy Peer Support Partner
Hi, my name is Andrea. I started Bell’s Palsy Peer Support after I was diagnosed with a severe case of Bell’s Palsy. During my multiple month on-going recovery, I experienced one of the most emotionally and physically challenging times of my life. I was told that most people recover in two to three weeks, around 85% of cases. Since months went by with no improvement, I struggled deeply with the possibility that I could be paralyzed forever. Having Bell’s Palsy is one of the most challenging experiences I have experienced and I know that I am not alone in feeling that way. That is why I wanted to start helping other people who get BP. I do not want anyone to feel like I did, so hopeless and alone with no one who truly understands what you are going through. Bell’s Palsy may cause interruption in life, but it does not have to stop you from living to your fullest.
How We Help
Bell's Palsy Resources
We have spent significant time compiling an extensive library of resources for you to access. Articles include medical white papers, as well as blogs with experiences from peers.
Book Appointment
As you continue on your Bell’s Palsy recovery journey, you may need extra support. If you think that you would benefit from a one-on-one conversation, book your session now.
Join Our Program
By signing up, you can connect and learn more about Bell’s Palsy. You’ll receive emails where we will share educational resources, tips, personal stories and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How would you describe the role of a Peer Support Partner? Are you a Therapist?
Our role as Support Partners is to listen, educate, troubleshoot, cheerleaders, or at times just an empathetic ear. We have the privilege of engaging with people from all walks of life battling the same condition. We are not licensed mental health workers.
What interests you about working with people living with BP?
As someone who also has Bell’s Palsy, I know the deep emotional and physical challenges. I also understand the isolating experience of living with this rare condition. The opportunity to be a part of helping patients as they choose to fight their condition is deeply rewarding.
What kind of things can people with Bell’s Palsy ask for your help with?
I am here to help you make sense of the thoughts and feelings that you are finding it difficult to cope with. I will not give you advice nor tell you what to do. I will answer your questions to the best of my ability and share general BP knowledge, but I am not a healthcare professional. Your healthcare team is always your primary resource when it comes to your BP and your treatment.
What question do you receive the most? And how do you answer it?
Most people want to know will I recover? Research indicates that 85% of Bell’s Palsy patients recover in the first month, 10% take months up to a year and 5% may never recover. Unfortunately, I can’t make you recover faster physically, but I can help you navigate the emotional recovery that is needed.
What do you love most about what you do for Bell’s Palsy patients?
Oh my goodness, I could go on and on answering this question. But I will just say this – knowing that I am able to help a peer of mine, going through the same difficult condition – is the most rewarding way I could ever spend my time. Thank you for allowing me to do what I do everyday!
What is the best piece of advice you can give to someone who was recently diagnosed?
Take it one day at a time. Educate yourself as much as possible about Bell’s Palsy, and keep open communication with your support network. And most importantly, you will get better. I can’t guarantee you will heal 100%, but I know you will be a stronger person no matter the outcome. Don’t let this devastating diagnosis change you. You can do this!
Contact
Ask a question or book an appointment below. Please allow up to 48 hours to receive a response to your question. For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital.
andrea@bellspalsysupport.com
Disclaimer: The information on this website, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to inform and entertain through a variety of topics. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is recommended to seek the advice of a competent physician or other qualified health care provider with questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Bell’s Palsy Peer Support does not prescribe, recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, treatments, products, procedures, opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this website. Reliance on any information appearing on this website is solely at your own risk.