Charla Nash Women Hospital

Almost two years have passed since the tragic chimpanzee attack that left victim, Charla Nash, disfigured, blind, and barely clinging to life. In November of 2009, Nash, 57, was mauled by her friend, Sandra Herold's, pet chimpanzee. The animal mangled her face so severely, that she lost her eyes, nose and mouth. In addition, she lost both of her hands in the vicious attack.

The severity of her condition left those who were close to her with little hope. However, today, she revealed a new face to a promising life.

Charla Nash is the first person ever to receive a full face and hand transplant in the same surgery. Unfortunately, her hands had to be removed due to complications with pneumonia. The fact that blood was not circulating properly made it impossible for her new hands to thrive.

However, her face transplant was a success. After 20 grueling hours with a team of more than 30 doctors, Charla Nash was given a new face.

“I’m beginning to feel my jaw and chin,” Charla told TODAY. “And I can move my mouth and smile. I still feel weak. But little by little I’m getting stronger.”

Not only will her incredible face transplant greatly improve her appearance, but she will be able to do all the things that we often take for granted: smelling the fresh air, tasting her food, and simply breathing.