Unique Smiles: The Facial Paralysis Podcast

In Episode 17, we talk to Jodi Barth, Gincy Stezar, and Dr. Michael Reilly from The Center for Facial Recovery. We talk about its origin, facial paralysis, and neuromuscular re-education. All episodes now available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-mx9TaB1Crol2vlMjHB5Q   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/   Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 16, we talk to Zoe Cross who has facial paralysis as a result of Moebius Syndrome. We discuss growing up with Moebius, the mindset to achieve a great life, dating and having her first kiss in her 40's, and advice for people with facial paralysis. We would love to hear your feedback.    All episodes now available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-mx9TaB1Crol2vlMjHB5Q   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 15, we talk to Christina Robert who has facial paralysis as a result of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. We discuss the onset of RHS, the confusion around diagnosis, recovery, and advice for people with facial paralysis. We would love to hear your feedback.   All episodes now available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-mx9TaB1Crol2vlMjHB5Q   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/ 

In Episode 14, we talk to Steve Kenny who has facial paralysis as a result of a car accident. We discuss his accident and subsequent stroke, the emotional and physical challenges, how it affected his marriage, surgeries, how he found acceptance with facial paralysis, and advice he has for people with facial paralysis. We would love to hear your feedback.   All episodes now available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-mx9TaB1Crol2vlMjHB5Q   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/     

In Episode 13, we talk to Elizabeth Robinson who has facial paralysis as a result of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. We discuss what is Ramsay Hunt, the emotional and physical struggles that come with it, social situations, her surprising talent she discovered as a result of it, and the creation of her facial paralysis support group on Facebook. We would love to hear your feedback.   All episodes now available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-mx9TaB1Crol2vlMjHB5Q   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/ 

In Episode 12, we talk to Steven Maldonado who was born with facial paralysis as a result of Moebius Syndrome. We discuss what is Moebius, growing up with a facial difference, bullying, social situations and dating, and finding acceptance. We also discuss Steven's involvement with the Moebius Syndrome Foundation, and some upcoming events.    All episodes now available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-mx9TaB1Crol2vlMjHB5Q   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In this powerful Episode 11, we talk to Georgia Kelley about getting facial paralysis as a result of acoustic neuroma. We discuss her diagnosis, her brain surgery, and the emotional support she received from her four daughters. We also discuss Georgia's decision to pursue her life goals, including stand-up comedy.    Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/      

In Episode 10 we talk to Jane Mateik about getting facial paralysis as a result of surgery to remove a tumor the size of a peach. We discuss the lack of a diagnosis from her doctors, her 10-hour brain surgery, her facial reconstruction surgeries, and the emotional challenges that stem from facial paralysis. We also discuss the importance of mourning the loss of your previous self, finding a support group and having a good sense of humor.   Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 9 we talk to Michelle Mendoza and her teenage son Charlie about getting facial paralysis as a result of surgery to remove a tumor when he was 8 years old. We discuss his misdiagnosis at age 4, his 10-hour surgery, his long recovery - including being in a coma, dealing with FP while going to school, and bullying. We also discuss how Charlie has overcome all of these things and is now a very active member at his school - including being the lead in a play, and singing in the talent show. Lastly, we end by discussing the new support group in Las Vegas they created for brain injury.    Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

Episode 8 is the second half of our conversation with Dr. Faye Wachs. We discuss the results of her study of over 100 facial paralysis patients and get a more detailed description of what life is like for people with facial paralysis! This is a very informative episode, and while it's a bit longer, it's worth it! If you would like to contact Dr. Wachs about being interviewed for future surveys, please contact her at flwachs@cpp.edu.   Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

Episode 7 is the first half of our conversation with Faye Wachs about getting facial paralysis as a result of Bell's Palsy. We discuss her story and the misinformation that people often receive. We talk about the steps people should take and language they should use when looking for treatment. Faye discusses her surgeries, including the incredible Selective Neurolysis proceedure to combat synkinesis. Finally, we talk briefly about her study of over 100 facial paralysis patients and get a glimpse of what's to come in part 2! This is a very informative episode not to be missed!   Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 6 we talk to Andrea Devine about getting facial paralysis as a result of surgery to remove a tumor when she was 4 months old. We discuss dealing with FP while going to school - including the dreaded school picture day, dating and relationships, therapy, and acceptance. Lastly, we end by discussing surgical procedures she's had done including the static sling and facial reanimation surgery. This is a very informative episode not to be missed!   Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 5 we talk to Jim Ross, a New York Times' Best-Selling Author, WWE Hall of Famer, and the voice of Pro Wrestling to millions of fans! We discuss his upcoming "Slobberknocker Session" along with his autobiography "Slobberknocker: My Life in Wrestling". We also discuss JR's three bouts with Bell's Palsy, including how he dealt with one case while it happened live on TV. JR also tells us his mindset on not letting Bell's Palsy get in the way of being on television and doing his dream job. If you are looking for inspiration, a role model, and a great mindset about overcoming facial paralysis, this is the episode for you! For JR's BBQ products, please visit: https://shop.wwe.com Purchase JR's autobiography Slobberkocker: My Life in Wrestling on Amazon. Follow JR on Twitter: @JRsBBQ   Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 4 we talk to Matthew Joffe, the Vice President of the Moebius Syndrome Foundation. We discuss what exactly is Moebius Syndrome, challenges of living with Moebius Syndrome, including: school, landing employment, and social settings. We also discuss the benefits of therapy, and what parents can do when dealing with a child with Moebius Syndrome. Matthew also tells us about his love for acting and recalls Opening Night of the first play he acted in. For more information about Moebius Syndrome, please visit: http://moebiussyndrome.org/    Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 3 we talk to Emily Schmitz, the administrator of the Facial Nerve Paralsysis Support Network group on Facebook. We talk about getting Bell's Palsy in middle school, growing up in a world of social media, the creation of the FNPSN Facebook group, finding love with FP, and her upcoming wedding and the pictures that go with it. She also gives her tips and tricks, and advice to those dealing with facial paralysis.   Don't forget to subscribe here or on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unique-smiles-podcast/id1352822884   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/   Also, a big THANK YOU to Wes Hutchinson for allowing the use of his beautiful song, "Summer Love" for the podcast. You can check Wes' music at https://weshutchinson.com/  

In Episode 2 we talk to Mary Jo Buttafuoco, who had arguably the most famous case of facial paralysis. In 1992, Mary Jo was thrust into the national media spotlight when she was shot in the face by a 17-year-old girl, who was having an affair with her husband. Now, Mary Jo is an author, motivational speaker, and one of the founders of the Facial Paralysis and Bells Palsy Foundation. We discuss dealing with facial paralysis in a time where there was very little information available, the mental side of facial paralysis, and how appearing on the Oprah Winfrey Show changed her life and ultimately led to the creation of the Facial Paralysis and Bells Palsy Foundation. Mary Jo also gives her advice to those who are trying to cope or might be new to facial paralysis. This is definitely worth a listen! Hope you enjoy it!   You can also read/hear more about Mary Jo's story by purchasing a copy of her book: "Getting it Through My Thick Skull" https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Through-My-Thick-Skull/dp/B00305CHR6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519432483&sr=8-1&keywords=getting+it+through+my+thick+skull   Also, here's the link to the awards show we discuss: https://www.hollywoodbeautyawards.com/   CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/uniquesmilespodcast/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: uniquesmilespodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/   and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/

In Episode 01 we bring you an introduction to the Unique Smiles Podcast. What it's about, what the objective is, and a bit of what you can expect going forward. Podcast host, Brian Apprille, shares his story of facial paralysis resulting from Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. He talks about his struggles, his thought process in trying to get back on stage in the public eye, and gives some advice for those who are on their journey dealing with facial paralysis.   View his stand-up comedy clip about Ramsay Hunt Syndrome here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxNEyoSXMzM&t=146s He is available for speaking engagements or comedy shows. You can visit his website: http://comedybrian.com/   If you have any questions/comments about the podcast please comment below or contact us at:  CONNECT WITH US! https://www.facebook.com/Unique-Smiles-Podcast-168413050468091/ https://twitter.com/UniqueSmilesPod Email: UniqueSmilesPodcast@gmail.com   A big THANK YOU to our sponsors: http://facialparalysisfoundation.org/  and    https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/