Caesar Gonzales - just another kid in America having a rough time of it at childhood.
Growing up in deplorable conditions, he dreams of a bright future in racing motorcycles. Visions of racing around Daytona on his Kawasaki motorcycle distract him from the beatings, starvation, and neglect that he endures at home day after day. His teachers and classmates see his condition but are confused as to what to do about it.
When Child protective Services finally intervenes and removes him from the abusive environment, he is hopeful. But the system put in place to protect him, although well-intended, is fraught with denial, cynicism, and politics. In pursuit of a quick fix, Caesar is placed in several different foster homes. He is denied any therapy to help him deal with the effects of the abuse that the system tries to convince him never actually happened.
Caesar is continually stereotyped and persecuted by a society that chooses to ignore, rather than confront, the issues surrounding child abuse. After many trials and tribulations, unlearning learned behaviour patterns, and dealing with prejudice, he beats the odds. He finally realises his childhood dream of being a pro motorcycle racer.
The effects of child abuse do not end with removal from the source. The effects remain forever. Read for yourself a first-hand account of child abuse and it's long term effects through the eyes of a survivour.
Beating The Odds, An Autobiographical Rags To Racing Story.
Best Regards,
Caesar Gonzales
