Imagine the scene,the back room of the (unspoilt)Rose and Lion,Bromyard Folk Festival 1994 at the Friday afternoon session when suddenly I'm dribbling beer everywhere and I've lost control of the left hand side of my face.
We eventually got to see the local GP at about 18-00 and he told us that I'd had a stroke and had better go to the A & E where we lived some 105 miles distant.
So after playing in the Torchlight procession off we set back home to our local hospital.
When we arrived there was much prodding and poking and eventually I was held all weekend in a stroke ward only to be told on Monday morning,of all times, that I'd got Bells Palsy and would I kindly vacate the bed to make room for someone who was really ill!
That was 15 years ago and despite the steroids and the exercises I reckon I've still got about 10% of the symptoms particularly when it's cold and damp or when I'm tired.
I have met other sufferers who have fully recovered inside three months so I guess it's the luck of the draw.
It certainly put paid to singing career for which my friends and family have been eternally grateful.LOL.
Best wishes for speedy and complete recovery.
JP2