Real stories

Read or listen to real stories from people affected by visible difference, their parents and families, as well as Changing Faces staff and volunteers. Inspired to share your story? We’d love to hear it – share your story now.

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Nicoya, a white woman in her 30s, who has brown hair and right sided facial paralysis. She's looking at the camera.

Nicoya’s story: “No one should fear being seen”

16 February 2022

Talking about Ramsay Hunt Syndrome and her facial paralysis online has helped Nicoya build confidence and accept her visible difference.

Kevin, a man, 30s, with short dark brown hair, stubble and glasses. The right side of his face droops due to loss of muscle control. He's wearing a purple shirt.

Kevin’s story: “We’re all human”

11 August 2021

Kevin lost muscle control on the right side of his face after an operation as a child. He recently wrote a memoir about his life experiences.

A woman, early 20s, shoulder length brown hair, blue jacket and blue shirt, sitting in front of a hedge.

Bethan’s story: “I feel confident in my skin”

1 March 2021

Bethan has facial palsy. Here she talks about how reconnecting with her love of music has helped her grow in confidence and self-esteem.

A woman in a black top smiles to the right of the camera, her dark hair in a ponytail.

Emma’s story: “Being the best version of me”

24 September 2020

With her family and employer’s support, Emma embraced her Bell's palsy and helps others feel better about their visible differences.

Sheila’s story: “I feel I have found myself again”

10 December 2019

Running a support group for other people with facial palsy helped Sheila regain her strength and confidence.