Miles for MnFIRE Day 2: Esko to Mahtowa

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 Esko, Mahtowa, Willow River, Hinckley, Rush City, 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 2:

Starting location: Esko, MN
Finish for the day: Mahtowa, MN
Miles completed: 17
Weather report: 63°F and misty

Minnesota firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode started day two of Miles for MnFIRE, the more than 150-mile journey from Duluth to St. Paul. On Sunday, Sept. 14, the team began at the Willard Munger State Trail near Esko, Minn.

Keeping a steady pace of approximately 19 minutes per mile, Foote and Bode made various stops to recharge, including a longer break at Carlton Fire Department, where Chief Derek Wolf chatted with the walkers and Wired Loon Coffee supplied some delicious fresh muffins.

The team finished the day in Mahtowa and was joined by Marley the service dog for the last leg of the journey!

The story of Miles for MnFIRE continues to reach every corner of our state. As the walk and coverage continues (including a new story by KARE 11 on its website), we’re excited to share that Miles for MnFIRE has raised $35,250 so far. We appreciate all of the support as we aim for our goal of $100,000. For more details or to donate, click here.

Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Facebook for updates along the way as our walkers, Doug and Kyle, head toward the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul, where they are scheduled to arrive on Sunday, Sept. 21. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here.

Photos by Ric Rosow

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Are you wanting to build a functional fitness routine, but unsure of where to start? How about pairing that with nutritious meals to nourish your body? 🏋️🍽️

We've got you and your department covered with our no-cost fitness & nutrition training – designed specifically for firefighters. Check it out today: mnfireinitiative.com/training/

#MoveForHealthDay
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Are you wanting to b

🚨 Calling all current and retired firefighters in or near Brainerd, Minnesota

We're currently seeking new MnFIRE training instructors – especially folks who live in or near Brainerd – to facilitate our free trainings on topics like cardiac, emotional wellness, cancer, sleep, and fitness & nutrition in communities like the Brainerd Lakes Area. These crucial trainings happen in tandem with our MnFIRE team, and we'd love your help.

If interested, please contact us at info@mnfireinitiative.com.
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🚨 Calling all cur

Happy #InternationalFirefightersDay to our phenomenal firefighters here in Minnesota and all around the world! We are so proud to support the fire service community through the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program. Thank a firefighter in your life today, and send this link their way: mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/ ... See MoreSee Less

Happy #International

Firefighters are exposed to traumatic stress at particularly high rates, and getting help from someone who has lived similar experiences can make all the difference. That's why MnFIRE peer supporters are here to provide confidential support to Minnesota firefighters, while acting as a bridge to outside professional services.

By providing emotional support outside of the traditional medical system, peer support directly reduces the culture of silence in the fire service that has all too often resulted in worsening mental health and suicide.

We've got your back. Visit our website or call 888-784-6634. mnfireinitiative.com/peer-support/

#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth
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