Miles for MnFIRE is a walk across Minnesota that raises awareness and much-needed funds for firefighter health. The more than 150-mile journey kicked off on Sept. 13 in Duluth and is making its way through numerous Minnesota communities, including Carlton, Hinckley, Pine City, Rush City, Harris, Wyoming, North Branch, Hugo and Vadnais Heights. The walk ends Sept. 21 at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul.
Day 7
Starting location: Harris, MN
Finish for the day: Wyoming, MN
Miles completed: 17
The weather report: 73 and cloudy with some rain
For seven straight days, Doug Foote and Kyle Bode have walked trails, roads and highways to spread awareness and raise funds for firefighter health. They are physical machines, having now racked up 130 miles of the more than 150-mile journey from Duluth to St. Paul. Still remaining are two days of walking towards the finish line at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol.
Since they started on Saturday, September 13 at the Duluth Fire Station, Foote and Bode have been bolstered by sheer determination and the loving support they have received from family, friends and the Minnesota communities we’ve visited. But also, by the little discoveries made on the journey that reinforce the unique human connection within the fire service. From people who are, by happenstance, firefighters, to those who are related to someone who is in the fire service.
“In Mahtowa, we met a firefighter who was related to the wife of a fellow St. Paul firefighter,” says Bode. “There’s just a lot of little connections. It motivates you when you hear everyone thanking you for what you are doing.”
Foote agrees, noting that it’s been very fulfilling to embark on this journey again, connecting with firefighters, their families, and other community members.
“What really brought out hope was how much more familiar and informed departments are, from Mahtowa to Sturgeon Lake, Finlayson to Pine City, Harris to Stacy,” says Foote. “Compared to four years ago, the Chiefs and firefighters seem to have a better understanding and appreciation for MnFIRE. We encourage them to use the resources in the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program and also to keep spreading the word of all MnFIRE has to offer. There is hope!”
A few other highlights from today: Bode’s dog, “Kilo,” joined the walk. Kilo is a St. Paul Fire Department support dog and was instantly popular.
We also fielded interviews from the Pioneer Press and FOX 9’s Maury Glover. We’re very excited to keep sharing what Miles for MnFIRE is all about!
As we enter the greater Twin Cities, we’re hopeful the firefighter community and those who support it come out to join Miles for MnFIRE. Either by walking alongside Foote and Bode, or by gathering at the finish line to cheer for them as they finish. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here.
And, don’t forget: Miles for MnFIRE is also a fundraiser. Money raised will help provide resources to Minnesota’s 20,000 firefighters. Our goal is $100,000 – and we can reach that with your help! To contribute, click here.
Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Facebook for more updates along the way.
Some photos by Ric Rosow
