In 'The Sadder Side of Me', I take you on a deeply personal journey through the unexpected onset of Bell's Palsy. One moment, life was ordinary; the next, an unfamiliar face stared back from the mirror. This harrowing experience unravels not only the physical struggle of losing control over half of my face, but also the profound day-to-day challenges with this and the emotional and psychological turmoil that ensued.
Through candid storytelling, I share the raw, unfiltered reality of grappling with this condition. As the days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, the initial shock gave way to a relentless battle with anxiety and self-doubt. Each chapter unfolds the intimate details of navigating a life turned upside down, from the medical maze of diagnosis and treatment to the ripple effects on relationships and family dynamics.
But this book is more than just a chronicle of suffering; it's a testament to resilience and the human spirit. Moments of hope, a journey into finding my cure after the NHS let me down, and the unwavering support of loved ones punctuated my journey. The Sadder Side of Me delves into the causes and complexities of Bell's palsy, providing insights into the condition that are both informative and enlightening.
Faced with adversity, I discover strength and courage within, revealing how I coped, adapted, and ultimately attempting on a daily basis to redefine my identity. The Sadder Side of Me is an interesting narrative that will resonate with anyone who has faced unexpected challenges, reminding us of all the enduring power of hope and perseverance.
The Sadder Side of Me by Claire Rowden was published on 19 November 2024. My thanks to the author who sent my copy for review as part of this #RandomThingsTours Blog Tour
Claire Rowden lives in Essex with her husband, their four children, seven cats, a Belgium Mali dog, two Peking ducks and a unique quartet of Silkie Showgirl chickens.
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I have known the author, Claire for many years. We've only met in real life once, but she's a huge part of the book blogging / reviewing community on line. Her blog and Instagram; Secret World of a Book is wonderful. Packed with great reviews and beautiful graphics, Claire is one of the best.
I was shocked to learn that Claire had suffered with Bell's Palsy. I had no idea that she had been so unwell, and I totally understand why she wanted to keep that to herself. I've always thought how pretty Claire is and am especially envious of her wonderful curly hair, it must have been such a shock to her, to have her appearance altered so much by this disease that just strikes out of nowhere.
Claire is a busy woman with a family of four children. Her children are all near in age and she has always juggled being a mum, a home maker, a keeper of animals, a wife and a book reviewer very well. When Bell's Palsy struck and one side of her face was paralysed, it was a horrendous experience for her.
Written with honesty and clarity, this memoir follows Claire as she explores different avenues for treatment. Sadly let down by the NHS, she discovers acupuncture and despite a fear of needles, she embarks on a course. Claire's fear is palpable and her bravery is outstanding. Not once does she give in.
Claire is a busy woman with a family of four children. Her children are all near in age and she has always juggled being a mum, a home maker, a keeper of animals, a wife and a book reviewer very well. When Bell's Palsy struck and one side of her face was paralysed, it was a horrendous experience for her.
Written with honesty and clarity, this memoir follows Claire as she explores different avenues for treatment. Sadly let down by the NHS, she discovers acupuncture and despite a fear of needles, she embarks on a course. Claire's fear is palpable and her bravery is outstanding. Not once does she give in.
The love and support of Claire's mother and sister shines through in the writing and it's so clear that they are a close trio who are always there for each other. There's no doubt that this journey would have been far more difficult for Claire without them.
A brave, unflinching story of how Bell's Palsy changed a life. Recommended.
A brave, unflinching story of how Bell's Palsy changed a life. Recommended.
Their household is a lively blend of love and laughter, reflecting Claire’s nurturing spirit and her passion for life.
Balancing family life with her professional aspirations, Claire is currently training to be a psychotherapist, driven by her deep desire to understand and support the emotional well-being of others. Her compassionate nature and insightful approach make her a natural in the field of mental health.
Claire is also an avid reader and a dedicated blogger.
On her Instagram blog, Secretworldofabook, she shares her love for reading with a growing community of fellow book enthusiasts.
Her blog is a vibrant space where she discusses her latest reads and connects with others who share her passion for literature.
When she’s not immersed in the world of books or her studies, Claire finds solace in nature.
She loves spending time outdoors, finding peace and inspiration in the natural world around her.
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