Toddler Burned In The Bathtub Released From ICU

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - These are the first glimpses of the now-smiling three-year-old Armani White. The boy is smiling only days after being released from the ICU.

His mother's boyfriend is accused of punishing him with scalding water back in December.

CBS13 spoke to Armani's grandfather tonight in an interview you'll see only on CBS13.

"Hi Papa. I'm getting better. I can do it," said Armani.

It's the voice that Armani's family waited so long to hear again.

After four months of surgeries and physical therapy, Armani has shown signs of major improvement.

"Oh he can color; he can play race car games," said Stephanie Brown, Armani's grandmother.

In December, little Armani suffered third-degree burns after his mother's boyfriend allegedly forced him to sit in hot water after peeing himself.

Doctors say Armani is left with a lifetime of physical scars. But the traumatizing experience hasn't slowed him down.

"He's the most smartest person I know. The most strong-willed person I know," said Richard Finley, Armani's grandfather.

Armani does hours of therapy to build back his muscle strength. Walking and arm movements are things he needs to learn to do all over again.

"Before he was just stuck in a hospital bed sedated for a long time. Now you can hold him," said Finley.

Armani's family says he still has a long way to full recovery, but they say Armani's positive attitude brings them comfort in knowing he will one day soon enjoy his childhood again.

"To know Armani is to love Armani," said Finley.