Toni Muñoz, percussionist for the renowned Filipino folk-rock band Ben&Ben, revealed on Instagram today, October 12, that she has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy. This announcement comes just a few days before the band’s highly-anticipated concert at the Coca-Cola Arena on October 14.
Toni described her current condition saying, “The left side of my face is paralyzed… I can only wear half a smile, and there’s a bit of change in the way I speak.” The diagnosis was made shortly before the group’s trip to Sydney, Australia for their 1MX show earlier this month.
In her heartfelt post, Muñoz expressed the emotional toll the diagnosis has taken on her, stating, “It’s a roller coaster of an experience, physically, mentally, emotionally.” Nonetheless, she remains grateful for the support from loved ones and the fact that she can still perform, albeit with some new challenges.
Muñoz chose to publicly address her health to provide clarity to her fans, noting, “I decided to ‘put this out there’ so fans wouldn’t wonder about my change in appearance.” Despite her current condition, her spirit remains optimistic. She added, “Even though I only have half a smile, it is still whole from my heart.”
Bell’s palsy, as defined by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders, is a neurological disorder resulting in paralysis or weakness on one side of the face due to an affected facial nerve.
Ben&Ben, formed in 2017, has gained immense popularity since its inception, with Toni Muñoz being a vital member from the beginning.