This is a really inspirational story. I think tenacity is a trait severely lacking from modern day founders of startups and most businesses. People like Steve Jobs had it, but I think the landscape is so different nowadays that it has become almost too easy to start a business. People don't have to struggle like they once did to get access to opportunities.
Agreed - the barriers to entry are so much lower than they used to be. I think, overall, it's a good thing, but the companies that have to really grind to get where they are usually end up in a better position I think.