Gina Heslop
In a harrowing tale of resilience, Charla Nash, a woman who suffered life-altering injuries in a brutal assault by her friend’s pet chimpanzee, has displayed unwavering courage in her path to recovery. Five years after the horrific incident, Charla continues to battle not only the physical trauma but also the emotional and psychological scars that come with her disfigurement.
Charla, who lost her face and hands in the attack, spoke about the profound loneliness and alienation she experiences. Despite the immense challenges, she remains resolute in her determination to heal. She declared, “I’ve never been a quitter,” emphasizing her indomitable spirit.
Three years after a groundbreaking face transplant, Charla is working tirelessly to regain her ability to express emotions, including the ability to smile. Her journey to recovery is nothing short of extraordinary, considering the extent of her injuries.
Yet, Charla faces another heart-wrenching reality. Fellow residents and staff at the American care home where she now resides keep their distance from her due to her frightening appearance, exacerbating her isolation. Charla, acknowledging her limited options, expressed her sense of powerlessness, reflecting on how her autonomy has been drastically diminished. She can no longer perform tasks she once took for granted, like changing a car tire or feeding herself.
The nightmare began in February 2009 when Charla was viciously attacked by her friend’s pet chimpanzee, Travis. The assault left her with devastating injuries to her eyes, nose, lips, and hands. Charla underwent multiple facial reconstruction surgeries and eventually received a glass eye. However, attempts to transplant a hand were unsuccessful.
Amidst her ongoing battle for recovery, Charla recently had dental work done, giving her stronger teeth, albeit with some limitations. She candidly shared, “It’s a struggle just to stay alive. Not even live; half-live.” She spoke of the overwhelming uncertainty about her future and the profound anxiety it brings.
To pass the time in her nursing home in Massachusetts, Charla listens to audiobooks and takes solitary walks. Her determination is evident in her dedication to physical therapy sessions aimed at strengthening her jaw. The recent addition of bottom teeth has improved her ability to eat, although challenges persist. Charla is gradually regaining the ability to enjoy some of her favorite foods, like chicken and pizza, while also expressing hope about eating salads again.
Charla’s story is a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of keeping wild animals as pets. Her traumatic encounter with Travis, who was ultimately shot by the police, served as a warning about the potential dangers of such practices. She stressed, “I am aware that the animals are adorable; however, they are not pets in any way.”
In the aftermath of the attack, Charla’s family sought legal action against the state of Connecticut for failing to confiscate the animal, requesting £100 million in compensation. However, the claim’s legitimacy was challenged, as state law did not prohibit private ownership of chimpanzees at the time of the incident.
