The powerful story an illegitimate, black foster care child, the unwavering faith of his white adoptive mother, and their improbable journey to prove that when hard work, determination and grace meet opportunity… anything can happen. The powerful story of a former foster care child, born premature to an alcohol- and drug-addicted teenager who traded sex for drugs, and how he overcame daunting life challenges in pursuit of his dreams. Developmentally delayed as a result of his birth mother’s abuse, Lucas Daniel Boyce struggled out of the gate and ended up failing kindergarten. His adoptive mother didn’t cast him aside as another tragic statistic however. Instead, Dorothy Boyce instilled in Lucas two very important principles that drove his determination to overcome the cards he’d been dealt and enabled him to eventually serve at the White House, fly aboard Air Force One, and become an executive for the NBA’s Orlando Magic at the young age of 29. Acknowledgments Introduction A Mother’s Vision Adopted Son A Giant Headache for the Teacher Identity and Race Three Dreams The Value of Preparation Meeting the President To Everything There is a Season White House Service The Native Son Returns Home World Champions On and Off the Court Afterword Having lived in foster care for a time in my life and as an adoptive parent, this book touched me deeply. Living Proof relates the essence of the American Dream. Lucas’ life is inspirational. This book helps the reader understand what makes America exceptional. ―Former U.S. Senator Mel Martinez When I read Lucas’ book, I cried, I laughed and I was inspired by his powerful and deeply moving life story. His journey is uplifting and a must-read for young people who get discouraged when life happens. Lucas’ strong and unwavering faith in God along with the supportive and encouraging love of his mother are palpable throughout. ―Roslyn Brock, Chairman, NAACP Lucas proves that despite life’s circumstances, we can accomplish our dreams. ―Pat Williams, Senior Vice President, The Orlando Magic The powerful story an illegitimate, black foster care child, the unwavering faith of his white adoptive mother, and their improbable journey to prove that when hard work, determination and grace meet opportunity… anything can happen. The powerful story of a former foster care child, born premature to an alcohol- and drug-addicted teenager who traded sex for drugs, and how he overcame daunting life challenges in pursuit of his dreams. Developmentally delayed as a result of his birth mother’s abuse, Lucas Daniel Boyce struggled out of the gate and ended up failing kindergarten. His adoptive mother didn’t cast him aside as another tragic statistic however. Instead, Dorothy Boyce instilled in Lucas two very important principles that drove his determination to overcome the cards he’d been dealt and enabled him to eventually serve at the White House, fly aboard Air Force One, and become an executive for the NBA’s Orlando Magic at the young age of 29. LUCAS DANIEL BOYCE is the director of the community relations and government affairs department for one of the NBA’s elite sports franchises, the Orlando Magic. Prior to joining the Magic, Lucas served at the White House and on a presidential campaign in a variety of different capacities spanning three separate offices: Political Affairs, Public Liaison, and the Office of the Vice President. A sought after speaker, Lucas travels across the country delivering his message of character, faith, and perseverance while seeking to instill in everyone he meets the belief that they are built for something more and have an opportunity to make a positive impact on their generation, regardless of their background or upbringing.