The United Healthcare Gulf Coast Challenge, a six-day non-competitive bicycle ride from Tallahassee to New Orleans and part of Project Hero, kicked off on March 5, and the participants made their way through the Gulf Coast area on the morning of March 7. More than 150 injured veterans, first responders, and their supporters came through the area wearing wristbands in honor of fallen Mobile Police Department Officer Justin Billa. Project Hero is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to helping veterans and first responders affected by PTSD, TBI and injury achieve rehabilitation, recovery and resilience in their daily lives and increasing awareness of the national mental health crisis posed by PTSD and TBI. Project Hero provides adaptive bikes to physically-challenged and injured participants at no cost and operates community-based programs in more than 50 cities. The United Healthcare Gulf Coast Challenge is the first of many challenges that will be taking place throughout the year and Project Hero invites the public to gather along the ride routes to support the cyclists. To learn more about all that Project Hero offers, register to participate in an upcoming event, or learn the ride routes, visit their website at www.ProjectHero.org.