HUTCHINSON, Kan. – A US marine who lost both legs by an IED in Afghanistan is biking 
across the United States to raise funds for the Semper Fi organization.
Toran Gaal was at Harley’s Bikes getting his cycle tuned up, a bike he powers with his arms. His trek across the country started in Julian, Calif., June 1st and his goal is to raise $20,000 for the fund that helps wounded service men and their families deal with such life-changing experiences.
Gaal was injured four years ago this month, and said he remembers little about the incident which blew one leg off above the knee. He also suffered a massive head injury in which he suffered 30 percent brain damage. He later lost the other leg all the way to his hip due to an infection.
He said the toughest part of the journey so far has been the trip through the Rocky Mountains, but said he is up to the challenges that come with such a trek. His support man Brian Riley, who also lost a leg in Afghanistan, drives a van to make sure Gaal has what he needs to make the trip. Gaal says his message to everyone is simple in that the body can take on so much more than we allow it to, and that no matter what life deals you, there is always something to shoot for. Despite the changes in his life, Gaal says he is truly blessed to have a wife and family, and to have the Semper Fi organization who has done so much for him and others.
Gaal and Riley hope to end their journey Aug. 2 in Arlington, Va., where he will meet his wife and daughter. He hopes to further his career as a motivational speaker.