Sherri Deluca, a foster mom, learned about Coconut's plight and stepped up to help him learn to love and receive love. It wasn't easy, but it was worth every growl and scratch.

"She has her battle scars to prove it but she never gave up on him. Lots of love and attention and he learned to trust and love," Nelson said.

After months of unconditional love, Coconut responded with his new-found purrs and snuggles. When he experienced what it was like to be loved, he was hooked!

Ashely Ward took Coconut to his second foster home where he continued to thrive. "I admit I was very worried he would go back to being frightened and mean with strangers but after just one night of hiding he came out from under the bed in his new foster home," Nelson said.