Jeff Bauman is 'Stronger' in Local Book Signing

Written by Dan Tuohy

NASHUA, N.H. – Jeff Bauman walked through Costco to shout-outs from friends and old co-workers. He glanced down the aisle to see a line of people that snaked around the store and he gave a modest nod. 

Almost a year since the Boston Marathon bombings took Bauman's legs on April 15, 2013, the Chelmsford resident and fellow survivors continue to inspire and to vanquish any fears lingering from that very black day. Bauman shares his experiences in the pages of "Stronger," the book he autographed again and again on Saturday afternoon in Nashua.

"Very exciting," said Carley Dangona, of Connecticut, after meeting Bauman and chatting briefly with him. "It's an absolute honor to be the first person in line."

Greg Hackney of Nashua was also there early to get an autographed copy. Hackney, a double amputee who lost his first leg to an infection six years ago, said he admired Bauman's strength and humility in the face of such adversity.

"Jeff's a real inspiration after what he went through with the bombing," Hackney said. "His frame of mind where he could help the authorities find out who's involved in the bombing and what he's gone through with the double amputation all at once. It's tough. I've been through it myself, but, one at a time, and to have both at the same time ... it's tough."

Bauman is a good role model, he said.

"He just told me to keep on trucking. I told him I would and I told him to keep up the faith. It's just a small bump in the road and it just gets better as time goes by. He's definitely someone who inspires everyone who meets him. He's very upbeat. He's set a good model for many, many people."

Today Jeff Bauman is "stronger." He and his fiancée, Erin Hurley, are expecting a baby this summer. Bauman has come far since he looked into the eyes of one of the marathon bombers, since he and Carlos Arrendondo became two of the many faces of what it means to be "Boston Strong."