The 2017 Europe’s Strongest Man takes place tomorrow in Leeds, England. Earlier today, Hafthor Bjornsson made an announcement on his Instagram page that he’s recently been diagnosed Bell’s Palsy.
Bell’s Palsy is a disease that causes partial paralysis of one’s face. The definite cause and reasoning behind this condition are still not understood, but one cause often linked to Bell’s Palsy is inflammation of nerves. This condition is estimated to last roughly 1-2 months, and most patients make a full recovery.
Bjornsson’s Instagram post below provides a full explanation of his diagnosis and what fans can expect who are coming to see him.
“To all my dear strongman fans, I have a small announcement. Last Sunday I got very sick. On Tuesday morning I woke up and the right side of my face felt kind of numb. It got worse over the course of the day and then it got completely paralyzed. My friends insisted sending me to the ER to get things checked out as they were seriously worried I was having a stroke. I spent a good amount of time at the hospital as doctors ran some tests on me.
Luckily I was informed there was nothing to worry about. That I have caught some virus called Bells Palsy which causes half of my face getting paralyzed. It can last from a week to a few months apparently. So please keep that in mind if you come to Europe’s Strongest Man tomorrow and get pictures with me that I’m not in a bad mood I just can’t really smile for pictures haha! Other than that I feel good and look forward to battling it out with the guys for the Title of Europe’s Strongest Man 2017 and putting on a great show for all you guys!
Bring it on!”
Luckily, this condition won’t be taking Bjornsson out of Europe’s Strongest Man. Just keep in mind that if you’re in attendance and want a picture with him, you shouldn’t expect a smile, as he jokingly states above.
This year, Bjornsson will be working to take back his title, which he lost in 2016 to Laurence Shahlaei.
Feature image from @thorbjornsson Instagram page.
