Guest writer Donna A. Michaels is the founder of the Heroes United to Heal Foundation, author of Courageously Broken, a U.S. Navy veteran, and a retired law enforcement officer dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders.
Every day, America’s veterans and first responders carry the weight of experiences most people will never fully understand. Repeated exposure to trauma, high-stakes decision-making, and the responsibility of protecting others leave lasting marks, often invisible, but no less real. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are not signs of weakness; they are the human cost of service. That is why Heroes United to Heal (HU2H) is hosting “A Night to Unite for Heroes: A Gala of Hope and Healing”, and why this event matters deeply to the law enforcement community.
The gala will take place on February 28, 2026, at the Radisson Resort at the Port in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and its purpose is simple but urgent: to fund life-saving HU2H Retreats for veterans and first responders struggling with invisible wounds. These retreats are not symbolic or social events, they are built on scientific medical research demonstrating that the education, camaraderie, and activities provided can reduce depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation by up to 88%. Every dollar raised during this evening goes directly toward sending heroes to these retreats, where healing begins and hope is restored.
At the heart of HU2H’s mission is a peer-support model. Retreats are facilitated by fellow veterans and first responders, men and women who have lived the job and understand its toll. There is no need to explain the nightmares, the hypervigilance, or the weight carried home after shift. Participants are met with understanding, respect, and connection. Most importantly, they are shown something many have forgotten or never believed: they are not alone.
The evening will feature two powerful keynote speakers who know the realities of service firsthand. Former American Sheriff Mark Lamb will speak from the law enforcement perspective, addressing leadership, accountability, and the long-term effects of service. Joining him is Retired Navy SEAL Master Chief Ross Munro of SEAL Team SIX, who will share his insight into how trauma affects even the strongest warriors. The event will also welcome Former Prisoner of War Jessica Lynch as a Guest of Honor, whose presence is a profound reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and survival. Sponsors are still needed for tables, and each sponsor will receive four VIP tickets along with recognition alongside these distinguished guests.
Guests will also enjoy live and silent auctions featuring an impressive collection of items, including custom firearms, exclusive travel experiences, and many other unique offerings. Every bid directly supports the HU2H Retreats. HU2H is proud to be an all-volunteer organization, made up of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to save the lives of our nation’s heroes, without salaries, without waste, and without compromise.
For those interested in attending, sponsoring, or learning more about this critical mission, visit www.hu2h.org. This gala is more than a night of recognition, it is a commitment to action. A reminder to those who serve that their sacrifices are seen, their struggles matter, and help is available.
Because when heroes are hurting, standing united isn’t optional, it’s essential.
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