But 17 years ago, I arrived at CNN with a suitcase, with my bicycle, and with about 100 dollars.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
It was an honor and privilege to arrive to this country 16 years ago with almost no money in my pocket. A lot has happened since then.
In 1981, I borrowed 2,000 pounds - a lot of money back then - paid 50 quid for a seat, packed my own sandwich, and hopped on a plane to America. It was a mighty leap, but one that paid off. A week later, I got a job called 'Remington Steele.'
I came to New York with $500 and I had to live on that, but thankfully I was taken up by photographers quickly.
CNN can still afford 36 bureaus around the world.
Everything important that I have done can be put into a little suitcase.
My father was a motorsports journalist and a motorbike fan. He gave me my motocross bike.
The first thing they gave me at 'Sports Illustrated' was a first-class air card. 'And oh, by the way, there's the petty cash drawer,' they told me. 'Take a few thousand dollars for expenses.'
I showed up in L.A. with $500 and a backpack and I stayed at a shelter, so nobody handed me anything. I worked for every single thing that I have.
In Cuba, I didn't even have a bicycle.
When I arrived in New York, I was homeless with 400 bucks in my pocket.