ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Sam Sutchaleo, owner of the Thai One On restaurant in Anniston, Ala., spoke at the depot's Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Luncheon May 25.

Sutchaleo, who immigrated to the United States at the age of 13 in 1975, detailed some of the hardships he faced growing up and how they shaped his life.

He learned to never give up.

One of his daughters had an illness and doctors predicted she wouldn't live to be an adult.

"I didn't give up on her," said Sutchaleo. Instead, he found other doctors who found treatments.

His daughter is now 27 and healthy.

He learned to make the best of everything that happens.

The first two restaurants he opened were in Indianapolis, Ind. Both closed following a downturn in the economy.

So, he took the opportunity to begin again in a new place, in Alabama.

"I work hard," said Sutchaleo. "I work hard every day. It's not where you come from or what color you are. Don't use anything for an excuse."

Sutchaleo then encouraged those present at the event to work hard to achieve their dreams and to never let excuses stand in the way of achieving them.