Remember That Viral Starving Kid in Nigeria? Look At His Incredible Transformation

The story of the Danish woman who saves abandoned children in Nigeria brought focus to the heartbreaking situation of a 2-year old kid who was left to die of hunger in the streets. This kid, who was just one of the countless children punished and abandoned by their families because they are considered as “witches” and accused of killing their parents or siblings, was found roaming in the streets by social aid worker Anja Ringgren Loven of Denmark.

He was rescued on January 31, 2016. This shocking photo of Loven giving water and biscuits to the emaciated kid made headlines.

Seeing the desperate situation of the boy, she took him in her arms to be given the proper care.

The boy’s chances of survival were very slim, given his condition.

They worked together to restore the boy’s health, which was a very challenging task.

Loven named him Hope. “The day I carried this sweet little boy in my arms for the very first time, I was so sure he would not survive. Every breath he took was a struggle and I did not want him to die without a name, without dignity, so I named him Hope. Hope to me is a special name. Not only the meaning of Hope but what it stands for. Many years ago I got the name HOPE tattooed on my fingers because to me it means: Help One Person Everyday.”

Fortunately, Hope responded well to his treatment.

From the emaciated boy who was on the throes of death, they were able to transform him into this:

He is now healthy and happier, surrounded by people who care for him at the orphanage.

Lovén took this picture to recreate the moment that she found Hope.

One year of love and care gave Hope a completely fresh start