MnFIRE’s newest fundraiser is a walk across Minnesota to raise awareness and much-needed funds for firefighter health. Miles for MnFIRE kicked off on Sept. 12 near Marietta, on the westernmost edge of the state, and is making its way through numerous Minnesota communities, including Lac Qui Parle, Chippewa, Kandiyohi, Meeker, McLeod, Carver, Hennepin, Ramsey counties. The walk ends Sept. 18 at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul.

As of Wednesday evening, Doug has officially made it more than halfway through his Miles for MnFIRE walk! It was another inspiring day filled with members of the fire service sharing their stories and countless support from local communities cheering on Doug along his route. FOX 9’s Maury Glover interviewed Doug about the walk yesterday.

Doug kicked off day four in Hutchinson, with a special sendoff from the Hutchinson Fire Department. He was then joined by a few Hutchinson firefighters in their bunker gear on his first steps of the day, as well as the founder of Integrations Wellness & Recovery Center, a local mental health treatment center, who was inspired by our mission to support firefighters through the emotional trauma that comes with this important work.

Then the Silver Lake Fire Department joined Doug for the second half of the day, again with some of the local firefighters in their gear too, and more firefighters and their families greeted the group as they arrived in Silver Lake. Doug’s wife, Denise, has also been a huge support throughout this week.

“When I see my wife at the end of each leg, it always, always lifts my spirit,” said Doug.

Throughout Miles for MnFIRE, Doug has been seen walking with a flag that celebrates and honors those in the fire service, and has had all of the firefighters who have walked beside him sign it.

Miles for MnFIRE has now raised a total of $11,055. To learn more and donate, click HERE. Your support will help ensure that more firefighters receive life-saving services in three key areas: heart health, emotional trauma, and cancer prevention and support.