This is a new week and it seems as though my recovery is continuing in a uniform manner. I see minute changes on a daily basis but the cumulative progress has been remarkable considering the severity of my symptoms just a few weeks ago.

The paralysis on the right is only really apparent when I smile or laugh but besides that I look almost 'normal'. Whenever I am in front of a mirror I spend a few minutes going through the facial movements. I can gauge my progress when I go through the whole smile, laugh, frown, wink scenario so this is quite an important part of the day.

It was really good to see a few of my old friends today. I haven't seen them for quite a while so 3 visitors in one evening was a godsend. It was strange to hear them offer me some Polo mints and Rich Tea biscuits because they were part of my staple diet in the early days of the illness. Then I realised that they had read my diary!

I suppose it's a strange concept having people know your personal business but, hey, that's the whole point of posting this diary. I'm including as many details as I can just in case you find something of importance. Believe me, mints ARE important!