Kuala Lumpur: The health of Chan Peng Soon is now his biggest concern and the World No. 6 mixed doubles player who has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy may miss some BWF World Tour tournaments at the beginning of 2020.
Due to the fact that the Olympic qualification period ends on Sunday, April 26, 2020, racking up as many Olympic qualification points as possible in early 2020 would be important for Chan and his mixed doubles partner, Goh Liu Ying.
“I was told it would take 6 to 8 weeks for me recover and I still can’t close my left eye,” said Chan.
“There are many factors for the Bell’s palsy illness. The neurologist told me that I may be too exhausted or too stressed which had weakened my immune system,” explained Chan.
“I’m currently undergoing treatment. The doctor told me that I can do some light training, I’ll take some rest before starting the training,” added Chan.
In order to materialize his dream of playing in the Tokyo Olympics, Chan planned to start his training on the 23rd of this month. He also expressed his interest in playing at the 2020 Malaysia Masters that will be held from Jan 7th, to Jan 12, 2020.
“At this stage, I have not withdrawn from the tournament. I will evaluate the situation. If my condition is improving, Liu Ying and I will participate at the Malaysia Masters. I am willing to take the risk. I don’t want to miss the opportunity to participate in the Olympics,” said Chan.
Bell’s palsy is named for Sir Charles Bell, a 19th century Scottish surgeon who described the facial nerve and its connection to the condition. The disorder, which is not related to stroke, is the most common cause of facial paralysis. Generally, Bell’s palsy affects only one of the paired facial nerves and one side of the face, however, in rare cases, it can affect both sides.
