I would like to encourage people to read this with an open mind, know that I am coming from a good place and am seeking to improve my current situation:

I have a male ball python that I raised from about a foot long. I have had him now 7-8 years! For the first 4 years I really enjoyed him as a pet. I would do all the 'right things' he was out of his tank often, I used a separate tank for feeding etc. it was nice that he was so comfortable being handled, and I was enjoying having him as a pet. Unfortunately, and sadly, he was neglected for a few years while I was in school. Also during this time I got a cat and was more and more hesitant to take my snake out with the cat around. These things together and laziness on my part, I began to neglect bringing him to a different tank for feeding. Anyway you can imagine how he has become... After being bit 3-4 times trying to take him out of his tank I am literally afraid of him and he stays in his tank all the time. I understand that he must think everything coming into his tank is food for him, but Im not sure what to do! The bottom line is that I want my snake friend back! Does anyone have tips or tricks on re-socializing a ball python? Is there hope? Is my only option re-homing him? I really would prefer not to re-home him, I even consider paying an expert to start the re-socialization process... If there is such a person! Please no negativity, I have been hard enough on myself about this, I just want to do right by him now. Thanks :/