Michael Orban

In 1969, at the age of 19, Orban was drafted and served as an infantry soldier in Vietnam. Profoundly changed by a catastrophic failure of a belief system, he returned home in spiritual and psychological chaos. Decades of punishing self destruction, failure followed. Detached from love, joy, happiness and hope, Orban sought refuge in the remote jungles and cultures of Africa. Returning home years later, the memories of war resurfaced, plunging Orban deeper into spiritual and psychological darkness. With all hope gone and desperate to end the pain, the idea of suicide became a soothing, welcome companion. However, an inner voice more powerful than suicide took charge and restored hope and a reconnection to love, joy and happiness.

Through his book Souled Out: A Memoir of War and Inner Peace, his graphic models on PTSD, The Warrior Partnership at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Incarcerated Veterans Project, VA peer counseling and dedication to PTSD education through public speaking, Michael brings to his presentations the incredible power and resilience of the human spirit.

Michael Orban’s story of courage, survival, fearless dedication to the truth, lessons from Africa, the humble Pygmies and indomitable spirit all combine to illuminate the healing path and process.