Personal HFS History - Jim McGonigal

I started experiencing spasms in 1998 and didn't think much of them (slight twitch in the right eye) until my condition started to become more severe within about a year. I told myself that it must be stress and I could manage it myself but after seeing my eye doctor for a new prescription I decided to ask for a referral and was sent to an eye specialist. After some test and a cat-scan they told me that everything looked normal and I possibly had a "nerve condition" and was referred to a plastic surgeon for Botox®. I thought to myself BOTOX®, that’s the stuff for women to get rid of wrinkles, no way I need a second opinion! Well in typical "me" fashion I sat on that for a couple of years until I suffered a minor neck injury in July of 2003.

After several chiropractic treatments with no relief from pain I made an appointment with a Neurosurgeon and after a MRI and diagnosis I mentioned the spasm and was told that they were unrelated and I was referred to a Neurologist. During my initial consultation was the first time I heard the words “Hemifacial Spasm”. (gee I wish the eye specialist mentioned this, big words sometimes scare me into action) She ordered another MRI just to rule out any other possibility and we discussed treatment. Medication didn't sound right and surgery sounded too extreme so I opted for Botox® and scheduled treatments to start on 10/27/03.

The eve of the big day I was feeling a little nervous and so maybe it was time to do some research. (DUH!) So surfing I went and that’s when I stumbled onto the Hemifacial Spasm Association (HFSA). After hours of reading link after link (some good, some bad, some darn right scary!) I felt better about my decision, though I still had some questions.

Into the doctor’s office I went, my note pad in hand and feeling very confident. I sat down with the doctor for a short game of stump the Neurologist (which I lost though she was impressed that I did my homework) and after having all my questions answered I had my first injections! Hurt like the dickens! little pinch! yea right. Other than that no problem, a little swelling, slight headache, minor dizziness but now I'm feeling better. (it's only been twelve hours)

I really appreciate all of the Group’s help, and I will keep you all updated with my progress. I think I found some new friends!

Permission granted the HFSA to post Personal HFS History on website.
Jim McGonigal, November 01, 2003

 

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