Amy Goddard's Journey with Bell's Palsy: A Story of Resilience and Awareness

Amy Goddard, a semi-professional footballer who played for Crystal Palace in the Championship, was diagnosed with Bell's palsy, a condition that causes sudden weakness or paralysis of facial muscles. This diagnosis, which affects approximately one in 70 people in the UK during their lifetime, marked a challenging period in Goddard's life. She described the experience as "petrifying," significantly impacting her physical and mental health, as well as her football career. Now playing for Southampton in the Women’s Super League 2 (WSL 2), Goddard shares her story during Facial Palsy Awareness Week to raise awareness about the mental health effects associated with the condition and its treatment.

The Guardian

Goddard's recovery journey was not solely physical; she faced considerable mental health challenges as a result of her condition and the side effects of the steroids prescribed for treatment. She reported experiencing insomnia and feelings of isolation, stating, “I feel like the steroids made me feel alone.” Despite having a supportive family, Goddard struggled with self-image and anxiety about how others perceived her appearance during this time. She expressed that her partner had to encourage her to engage in activities, as she felt paranoid about being judged while out in public.

The Guardian

After spending three months away from football, Goddard made the decision to leave Crystal Palace and join lower-tier teams, including Bridgwater and Oxford, to rebuild her confidence. She emphasized the importance of trusting one's journey, stating, “Career-wise it is not what I planned, but I always say to everyone: ‘Trust your own journey.’” After two years of recovery, she returned to the Championship with Sunderland in 2023 and subsequently signed with Southampton.

The Guardian

Goddard's experience highlights the often-overlooked mental health implications of Bell's palsy. She advocates for awareness of the psychological effects that accompany the condition, stating, “It is not just a physical impact, it is the mental impact that can affect you.” She encourages others to acknowledge their feelings and seek help, reinforcing that it is acceptable to not be okay. Goddard has also engaged in therapy to address her mental health challenges, which she began during the current football season.

The Guardian

In her reflections, Goddard noted the lack of information regarding the potential side effects of her medication, saying, “I was never made aware of the extent it could impact.” This sentiment underscores the need for better communication regarding treatment options and their effects on patients.

The Guardian

• “It was really hard at that time, I have never been in such a dark place before,” — Amy Goddard, Footballer

The Guardian

• “To realise it is not just a physical impact, it is the mental impact that can affect you,” — Amy Goddard, Footballer

The Guardian

• “I genuinely never thought in a million years I was going to feel that way.” — Amy Goddard, Footballer

The Guardian

Goddard's journey serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in the context of physical health conditions, particularly for athletes and those in high-pressure environments.

The Guardian