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The sport of surfing has paved the way for many great athletes. With its open arms and azure waves, the ocean has always laid a tarmac for the surfers. However, the sporting world of surfing not only macadamizes the way for surfers, but it also helps many who seek solace in the ocean.

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A couple of years back, a Marine Corps Seargent, Toran Gaal, who is medically retired from his army metier, found his safe haven in the wharfage of ocean. 

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A marine amputee found his solace in the ocean

In 2017, the retired Marine Corps Seargent, Toran Gaal, appeared in an interview with the U.S. Department of Defense. As per the report, Gaal got physically impaired while he was serving in the army. Since then, he underwent around 100 surgeries. However, Gaal got enrolled in surfing therapy and ultimately found his solace there. He said, “I want people to understand that the ocean is the biggest healing property there is. There’s no medication that the ocean can’t provide”.

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As a Marine corp, Gaal lost a lot of his acquaintances during the war. However, being close to the ocean makes him feel connected to the ones he had lost. “The ocean allows me to feel close to them and gives me a chance to gain relationships with some of the volunteers and to be happy”.

Read More: “It’s Got Every Element of Fear”: Kelly Slater Once Described the Most Dangerous Place He Had Surfed

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Moreover, Toran expressed his heartfelt gratitude, “I’m grateful for programs like this”, as surfing immensely helped him heal both physically and mentally. Clearly, being closer to the ocean made Gaal find tranquility amidst the chaos. “I feel like I’m lifted up”, added Toran.

A customized surfing board aided Gaal

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In his Surf Therapy clinic, Toran got his own customized surfboard. The board was designed in such a way that it helped Gaal to surf alone in the ocean with no assistance. 

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Not only surfing but the veteran US Marine Corps also zestfully indulges in other activities that require physical prowess. He even shares several workout prompts on his social media handle. Legends like Toran Gaal are truly an inspiration for many.

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Purva Jain

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Purva Jain is the Senior Editor for US Sports at EssentiallySports, heading coverage of Track & Field, Gymnastics, Tennis, Alpine Skiing, Swimming and other verticles. She oversees day-to-day operations and mentors a large team of editors and writers on uncovering unique angles to stories. A writer-turned-editor, Purva began her ES journey with standout coverage of the 2022/23 FIS Alpine Skiing World Cup and went on to capture the excitement of the Know more

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Pritam Priyedarshi

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