Cross-country bike ride: California to Florida journey raises money for veteran charities

PHOENIX -- "I want to inspire folks to try, to continue reaching for their goals, even though they are facing something that changes their lives and they way they approach things. I want them to keep going. I want them to keep trying.

A journey to support veterans: disabled veteran Steven Hughes is pedaling across the country to raise money and awareness for three charities close to his heart, including the Travis Mills Foundation.

Travis is one of five quadruple amputees who survived and he runs a retreat for other veterans who suffered similar injuries," said Hughes.

Hughes began his journey in San Diego on September 19. He will spend the next two months biking across the country. His final destination is Jacksonville, Florida. Along the way, he stopped at a local brewery in the Valley.

"I am doing a fundraiser this Sunday at San Tan Brewing in Chandler from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. There's no pressure, just kind of drop by. I would love to meet folks, I would love to talk to people who are experiencing adversity themselves. I want to hear their stories. I want to continue to be inspired," he said.

The goal is to raise $30,000. $10,000 for each charity. Hughes hopes to motivate others along the way with one message: never give up.

"What I have, I have the loss of use of my lower left leg. I thought you know what, this is just a minor set back. I'm not going to stop living my life and doing the things I enjoy doing... I wanted to ride was to inspire and motivate others who are facing obstacles, because we all face obstacles in our lives."

Steven Hughes cross-country bike ride fundraiser
Sept. 30, 5pm - 8pm
San Tan Brewing Company
8 S. San Marcos Pl.
Chandler, AZ 85225
(480) 917-8700
santanbrewing.com

Travis Mills Foundation
www.travismills.org/foundation