Gogglebox star makes emotional health announcement on Channel 4 show
by Seamus Duff · ChronicleLiveGogglebox's own Sue Sheehan has opened up about her struggle with Bell's Palsy while featuring on the beloved Channel 4 programme.
Since joining the Gogglebox cast in 2019, Sue and her husband Steve have garnered a fond following from viewers as they digest and discuss the week's TV highlights. However, fans were shocked in the latest airing when it was disclosed that Sue is grappling with Bell's Palsy this neurological condition precipitates transient paralysis or muscle weakness on one side of the face.
In exceptional cases, the ailment can affect both sides of the face, but it commonly brings forth symptoms like an asymmetric smile due to drooping eyelids or mouth corners, salivation issues, altered taste sensation and either excessively dry or teary eyes. Sues absence in some recent episodes had been noted, and on Fridays episode, she shared her battle with the illness.
During the show, Sue explained: "I mean I've actually learned to do a couple of things since this Bell's Palsy," prompting Steve to enquire: "Have you? " Sue elaborated: "Yeah one is to speak through the side of my mouth and the other one is chewing, chewing takes a long time."
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Steve offered a light-hearted support: "I have offered to chew your food for you ..." which led Sue to counter: "You have - but I'm not having that.", reports the Mirror.
With affectionate jest, Steve remarked: "You haven't lost the sharp side of your tongue have you? ".
The heartwarming conversation struck a chord with viewers, who were impressed by Sue's courageous approach to discussing her health struggles. One X user expressed their well-wishes, saying: "All the best to Sue and big love for bringing Bell's Palsy to the fore."
Another fan added: "Sue and Steve wishing you a speedy recovery from your Bell's palsy Sue keep being you love seeing you both on Gogglebox."
Similar sentiments were shared by others, with one typing: "I love Sue and Steve wishing Sue well."
Another viewer offered their support, saying: "Get well soon, lovely lady."
According to the NHS, treatment options for Bell's Palsy include steroids and eye drops for those experiencing difficulty closing their eyes. Most individuals recover from the condition within six months, although recovery times can vary.
In recent years, I'm A Celebrity star Tulisa Contostavlos has spoken publicly about her own struggles with Bell's Palsy. During an appearance on ITV's Loose Women, the singer openly discussed her experiences, revealing: "I do suffer from Bell's palsy... it can cause facial paralysis, it can cause swelling."
Tulisa attributed her first Bell's Palsy episode to a severe horse-riding accident, which left her with a fractured skull and nerve damage. To manage her condition, she always carries emergency steroids with her, which has helped reduce the duration of her attacks over time.
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