After an improvised explosive device blew off Toran Gaal's legs on June 26, 2011, the former Marine tried to stay positive. The accident sent him through 55 surgeries and cost him some of his memory, but he refused to give up on making a good life after service. Gaal's whole goal was to remember that there is a purpose to every life. That was when he developed a plan to ride across the U.S. on his handcycle. Gaal started his journey in San Diego on June 1. He has crossed most of the country and is currently in Virginia, just a little over 100 miles from his final destination at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery.
The total distance of Gaal's trip was 3,800 miles through all types of weather and personal struggle. Despite the challenge of the mission, Gaal never lost heart.
"The only limits in life are the ones we set on ourselves," he said to the Sun Herald.
During his travels, the veteran is raising money for the Semper Fi Fund, an organization that assists family members of wounded Marines. This was the organization that gave Gaal his first handcycle and started him on the path to healing. When his journey is finished, Gaal hopes to start a career as a professional public speaker. He wants to share his experiences and help others find their own strength.