Albert Nketia, a young boy whose tearful, half-smiling expression became one of Ghana’s most recognizable internet memes, is now facing an overwhelming health crisis.
At just nine years old, Albert is battling a severe skin infection that has persisted for months, leaving his family desperate for medical help and support.
Albert’s rise to internet fame began two years ago when a video of him, displaying a teary-eyed yet half-smiling expression, went viral.
His face quickly became a beloved meme, often used to express a mixture of sadness and humor across social media platforms. What many people did not know, however, was the complex reality of Albert’s life beyond the screen.
Behind the meme, Albert is a child who has faced significant challenges. He lives with his grandmother, who has been his primary caregiver since birth.
Albert is autistic, a condition that was not widely known until after the viral spread of his video.
His diagnosis was only revealed after his internet fame. The boy’s life has been marked by social difficulties, and his health has often been a source of concern.
For several months, Albert has been struggling with a persistent and severe skin infection that has defied medical treatment.
Despite numerous visits to hospitals and the family’s repeated efforts to find a solution, Albert’s condition has continued to worsen.
His grandmother, speaking through tears, shared the family’s struggle to get him the medical attention he needs.
She explained that they have exhausted their limited financial resources on treatments that offered no lasting relief.
Albert’s story, often seen through the lens of a viral meme, has revealed the stark contrast between internet fame and the harsh realities of life.
His family’s situation has become dire, as they desperately seek help for his ongoing medical battle.
-BY Daniel Bampoe