(WXYZ) — Kelly Stafford, the wife of Detroit Lions Quarterback Matthew Stafford, got candid in a post Tuesday morning about her progress following brain surgery to remove a tumor in April.
Stafford began the Instagram post: "I’d be lying if I told you it was easy to show you these photos."
She included a string of close-up photos comparing her face before and after the surgery.
"I have weakness on my right side.. might look slight to others, but it’s very noticeable to me. I have to wait 6 -12 months to know whether this will be permanent or not."
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Kelly says she has been experiencing dryness in one eye and differences in her smile.
I wish I could tell you it didn’t bother me, that I haven’t cried about it.. But I want to be transparent and truthful about this entire process, the good and the bad.. and to be honest I’m extremely, EXTREMELY insecure about this. I see it in my eyes and in my smile. Every time I laugh I cover my mouth because that’s when it’s most noticeable.. that’s when I’m most vulnerable.
Although the difference is slight, it changed my smile. I feel the weakness when I pucker to kiss my husband and when I try to make kissy noises to my girls. My right eye doesn’t close all the way and therefore, I have learned how irritating a dry eye can be and how important it is to carry eye drops in every purse.. If this is permanent, i know eventually I will be ok with it. I may sound superficial with this post and dont get me wrong, I am so grateful that I am here and healing.. but I want to be upfront and honest.
The mother of three was met with an outpour of kind words and encouragement from supporters in the comment section.
One commenter wrote: "...you are such a #Champion! To be so willing to share your journey, your vulnerability and struggles is going to be a blessing for so many others."
Another said, "Such a beautifully brave post Kelly. I admire your perspective in your gratefulness for your positive outcome while still facing some difficulties that would be felt by any human being."
Hang in there Kelly!
