The GP's point was that without taking that risk their family would not be there. The opportunities he has now are the result of the risk his family took while

The GP's point was that without taking that risk their family would not be there. The opportunities he has now are the result of the risk his family took while they were underprivileged. The GP is not a "the definition of a rich trust-fund kid", he is the definition of a self-made American. Arguing that no one can overcome adversity with hard work is just as irresponsible as saying that everyone can overcome adversity with hard work.