"Overcoming Obstacles, No Matter What They Are or Who You Are"

The subject of a new documentary, "Ramon Rising," Dr. Ramon Resa at the age of 3 was put to work picking cotton, oranges, and grapes in California’s Central Valley. Abandoned by his single mother, who had 5 children before she was 20, his world was one of poverty, neglect, abuse, and total disregard for education.

A Mexican-American farmworker boy in a family of 15, he never imagined becoming a doctor. But in second-grade, his teacher squatted down in front of him and told him he should think about going to "college." He didn't know what the word meant -- but his eyes were opened.

He had to overcome low self-esteem, a speech impediment, recurring depression, prejudice, and even opposition from his grandparents. Armed with a stubborn belief in himself and the love and support of his college sweetheart-now-wife of 30 years, he persisted.

After finishing medical school, Dr. Resa returned to the rural area where he grew up, establishing a pediatric practice in Porterville that includes many poor and underserved children like the child he once was. "My mission," he says, "is to be a role model who cares for their minds and spirits as well as their bodies."

Is it any surprise, then, that Dr. Resa is also a Rotarian? And a TEDx speaker? 

Ramon’s message of determination and resilience has moved students, parents, educators, professionals, and businesspeople nationwide, and even Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, who said: “Dr. Resa inspires all who know him.” In his memoir, "Out of the Fields: My Journey from Farmworker Boy to Pediatrician," he speaks to the heart of everyone who dreams of creating a better tomorrow for themselves and those they love.

Dr. Resa will be speaking on "Overcoming Obstacles, No Matter What They Are or Who You Are."