ROMA – We saw him at the end of his Empoli’s last match, in Lecce, with a pained expression. As he explained to Locker room newsRoberto D’Aversa was the victim of a temporary facial paresis: he has already had to live with it for a few weeks. “I woke up and my mouth was no longer responding. I was brushing my teeth, I hadn’t tasted anything for two days. I went to the hospital. It’s a temporary discomfort, which gets better day after day. The motivation? Viral, or a herpes, or even a cold shock on a nerve”.
D’Aversa: “I had paresis, I’m not hiding”
In this regard, he commented on the history of Camilla Mancini: “I recently read about the daughter of Roberto Manciniwho was discriminated against for a facial malformation. It impressed me a lot. I believe there is nothing to be ashamed of.” What he also did: “I didn’t hide. I went on the field, in front of the cameras, without problems. To reassure the people who love me. Now I joke with my youngest daughter when I try to give her a kiss and her mouth goes somewhere else.”
D’Aversa in the match between Lecce and Empoli last November 8th
D’Aversa: “My paresis? The problems are different.”
The Empoli coach added: “I empathize with those who have lived with it all their lives. Those who are bullied for it. I’m just taking medicine for my nerves, it will pass. If I look at the problems my mother is struggling with, who suffered a stroke, I come to the conclusion that the problems are different.”
The precedent of Simona Ventura
She was also affected by facial paresis Simona Venturawhich however decided to air on the program last April 7th Intercom Rai 2con Paola Perego. In the following episode, a week later, the TV presenter was forced to leave the live broadcast halfway through and said: “I tried, but now I feel I have to go and rest, see you next Sunday”.
* How can advancements in nerve regeneration techniques and targeted therapies potentially revolutionize the treatment and long-term outcomes for people living with facial paresis?
** Host:** Welcome back to World Today News. Today, we delve into an important topic that often goes unnoticed, facial paresis, a condition that has recently come into the spotlight thanks to the courage of individuals like Roberto D’Aversa, coach of Empoli football club, and TV presenter Simona Ventura. Joining us today are Dr. Maria Rossi, a neurologist specializing in facial nerve disorders, and Sarah Jones, an advocate for disability visibility and inclusion. Welcome, both.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me.
**Sarah:** It’s great to be here.
**Host:** Dr. Rossi, let’s start with the medical aspect. Can you explain to our audience what facial paresis is, its causes, and typical treatment?
**Dr. Rossi:** Facial paresis is a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the face. This can range from mild droopiness to complete inability to move one side of the face. Causes vary, including viral infections, nerve damage, and even autoimmune diseases. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying cause, but medication, physical therapy, and even surgery can help manage symptoms.
**Host:** Roberto D’Aversa recently shared his experience with temporary facial paresis, emphasizing it’s “nothing to be ashamed of.” Sarah, how important is it for public figures to speak openly about these conditions?
**Sarah:** It’s incredibly powerful. When someone in the public eye shares their story, it helps to normalize these experiences and reduce stigma around disabilities. It shows people they’re not alone, and encourages them to seek help and support.
**Host:** D’Aversa compared his experience to the challenges faced by Camilla Mancini, daughter of Roberto Mancini, who has a facial malformation. Do you think this comparison sheds light on the wider societal issue of discrimination against visible differences,**
**Dr. Rossi:** Absolutely. People with visible differences, whether temporary or permanent, often face prejudice and misunderstanding.
**Sarah:** It highlights the need for greater understanding and inclusivity.
**Host:** Do you have any advice for individuals facing similar challenges, perhaps unspoken stigmatization, about coping with a visible difference?
**Sarah:** Know you are not alone. Reach out to support groups, connect with others who understand. Advocate for yourself and educate others about your situation. Remember, your worth is not defined by your appearance.
**Host:** Dr. Rossi, are there any ongoing research efforts focused on improving treatment options for facial paresis?
**Dr. Rossi:** Yes, there are exciting developments in nerve regeneration techniques and targeted therapies aimed at minimizing long-term effects and improving quality of life for those with facial paresis.
**Host:** Thank you both for this informative and insightful discussion.
**Host:** For our viewers seeking further support and resources, we’ve compiled a list of helpful organizations on our website: world-today-news.com. Remember, it’s important to open the discussion, break down stigma, and create a more inclusive world. We encourage you to share this conversation with friends and family. Thank you for joining us, and stay tuned for more important conversations on World Today News.
