Who is Paul Ignacio "Gonzo" Gonzales from Going Bovine and what is their importance?

Gonzo is a Latino dwarf who goes to school with Cameron. He is also assigned to be in the same room with Cameron at the hospital. Gonzo has an overbearing mother who feels that every little thing in life could kill him. Over time, Gonzo has also adopted this view. His fears have kept him from really living his life to the fullest. Gonzo isn't sure he wants to go on Cameron's quest, but he does for Cameron's sake. By the end of the journey Gonzo has come out of the closet and is meeting the challenges and adventures of life head on.