Around GMA

Article Inside Page

Martine Ho revealed in her Instagram stories that she is diagnosed with facial paralysis called the Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.

According to Martine, her facial paralysis started in 2020. It was the day before she gave birth to Penelope.

Photo source: @martine

She said, "Hi Internet fam--today I'm sharing something a bit personal I've been privately going through since last year. I've shared so much of my life here for so many years and want to continue doing that but I guess with that comes some moments that aren't as perfect. If you've wondered why I haven't smiled in some time--here's why."

Martine discussed how she learned that she had the Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.

"The morning before my planned Caesarian birth to Penelope, I woke up with the left side completely paralyzed. I was brushing my teeth and noticed the water just spilling out and that I was unable to blink. I thought I might be having a stroke actually. I rushed to the doctor and was then diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (a.k.a. shingles/adult chickenpox)."

The celebrity entrepreneur and It Girl shared what triggered the Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.

"Apparently, when you have chickenpox as a kid, the virus can still live on in your nerves and come back to haunt you as an adult when your immune system is weakened (i.e., during pregnancy or stressful times, which pretty much summed up my 2020). In my case, the virus attacked my facial nerve causing the paralysis," she explained.

Martine revealed in her post that she will not have the same motor function in her face. "Most Ramsay Hunt Syndrome cases have a complete recovery - and then there's the unlucky bunch with more severe nerve damage that will never have the same motor function of their face again. I am part of that unlucky bunch."

"After seeing multiple western and eastern doctors, specialists, and physical therapists, I have been told that I will never be able to smile same again or have the same facial mobility," she added,

Photo source: @martine

The new mom shared what she learned from this experience. "This whole experience taught me what really matters in this life-- and it's being kind to yourself and nurturing your close relationships."

She also discussed her journey to rebuild her confidence to face society. "As I plan to re-emerge back into society at some point, I'd like to do so openly and confidently and not ashamed anymore about what I've been through."

Martine added, "It's been a weird and reflective journey rebuilding my confidence and feeling comfortable looking at myself again in the mirror and even being on camera again but I'm working towards that every day."

Martine clarified that her decision to post about her health condition is not to gain sympathy.

"I am sharing this today not to gain sympathy but to just share my story and if anyone out there is going through something even remotely similar, that you are not alone and your value and purpose and happiness is not determined by what is on the surface. Sending love to you all."

Photo source: @martine

After she publicized her health status, Martine said that she is thankful for the love and support that she received.

Photo source: @martine

"I want to say thank you to you all. I was really nervous to share this but I am overwhelmed with love and support," Martine shared.

RELATED CONTENT:

LOOK: 'It Girls' cousin Martine Cajucom gets married!

Ways to make your workspace fun to stare at all day a la Martine Cajucom