As a fire service member of 18 years, Mandee Marx is highly invested in her work as a peer supporter through MnFIRE. She says, “supporting mental health and resilience is just as important as the work we do on the front lines.”

Learn about Mandee’s role with MnFIRE’s Peer Support Program and how being there for fellow firefighters has taught her no one should carry the weight of this job alone.

Tell us about yourself, your history with the fire service and who you are outside of your role as a firefighter. 

Over my 18 years in the fire service, I’ve served in three different communities. In 2007, I began my fire service journey with the Long Lake Fire Department and then moved to Byron in 2014 and became the first female firefighter within the department. Now since 2017, I’ve worked full-time for the Rochester Fire Department.

I am the proud wife of a dedicated police sergeant – yep, we’re a police/fire house! There’s never a dull moment, which can come with its own unique set of challenges! I am also mom to three kids. When I am not serving my community, I love being outdoors and watching my youngest daughter, age 16, play in goal for her hockey team.

When and why did you become a MnFIRE peer supporter?  

I became a peer supporter in 2015 because I understand firsthand the unique challenges firefighters face on the job and at home. Being there for my sisters and brothers in the fire service and helping them navigate tough times is my way of making sure no one feels alone.

What are the most rewarding and surprising parts of your role as a peer supporter? 

The most rewarding part of being a peer supporter is knowing that I can make a real difference just by being present and listening. Seeing someone feeling less alone and more understood is incredibly meaningful. What surprised me the most was how the role has also given back to me. Walking alongside others through their challenges has strengthened my own resilience and deepened the bonds I share within the fire service, reminding me that we were never meant to carry the weight of this job alone.

What should others who want to become a peer supporter know? And what qualities do you think make a good peer supporter? 

As peer supporters, our role is to simply be there for fellow firefighters – to listen, understand and offer support when life gets tough. Offering them a safe space where they can share their thoughts and know that they are not alone. Sometimes it’s just listening while other times it’s connecting them to additional resources.

A great peer supporter is someone who firefighters can trust to listen without judgment and offer guidance and support during tough times. As a peer supporter, we are not there to “fix” the other person. We are there to listen and support them. We also need to take care of ourselves so we’re able to be fully present when someone needs us.

What are some of the ways you keep yourself healthy mentally and physically?

Physically, I go for runs outside and try to stay active. I do my best to eat healthy and get sleep when I can. I’ve also learned that it’s ok to say no and set boundaries. As a peer supporter, I want to be there for those who need me but if I am overwhelmed and struggling, I can’t be the peer they need.

What advice can you offer fellow firefighters who may be struggling with their mental health? What are some strategies/practices that may help?

It’s ok to not be ok. If you find yourself struggling, talk with someone you trust, don’t try and fight through these demons alone. Many of us face the same battles and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

When I become overwhelmed and start to feel like the job is taking over my life, I hit pause and do something that brings me joy and helps reset my mind.

What do you see as the most valuable component of the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program? 

The most valuable component of the program is connection. MnFIRE connects a struggling firefighter or their family member with someone who truly understands the unique stresses of the job and listens without judgment. Having a shared experience builds trust and reminds firefighters they are not alone. Sometimes a simple, “Are you ok?” can make all the difference.

Help is just a call away.

MnFIRE Peer Support is a safe, confidential space to talk about hardships. Minnesota firefighters and their family members can get connected by calling our 24-hour helpline at 888-784-6634 and selecting option 2.

We’re thrilled to share George Esbensen has been named to the 2025 Notable Nonprofit Board Members list by Twin Cities Business. He joins an impressive group of experienced board members who lend their expertise in a variety of fields to help organizations serve the public.

In George’s case, he has created a tidal wave of change within the Minnesota firefighter community. He has made lasting impact as a longtime fire chief in Eden Prairie and as a co-founder of the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative (MnFIRE) nonprofit in 2016 with two other experienced fire service members. MnFIRE’s mission has always been to provide resources for the three most common health risks that firefighters face: cardiac issues, emotional trauma and cancer.

After years of getting MnFIRE off the ground, under George’s tenure as board president in 2021, MnFIRE rallied the state’s fire service to persuade the state legislature to pass the most comprehensive firefighter well-being legislation in the nation. The Hometown Heroes Assistance Program (HHAP) dedicates $4 million per year to provide life-changing resources to Minnesota’s 20,000 firefighters – all at no cost to them or their department.

“George was instrumental in developing and leading the strategy of outsourcing key health benefits to the private sector, which enabled MnFIRE to begin providing benefits quickly,” said Mike Dobesh, president and co-founder of MnFIRE. “His passion for helping fellow firefighters is unmatched, and his leadership has enabled MnFIRE to grow, reach and improve the lives of thousands of Minnesota firefighters and their loved ones.”

George continues to be a tireless advocate for increased support of firefighters when it comes to their health and wellness. He was recently on KARE-11 explaining how MnFIRE was launched, the training opportunities and resources that are available, and two notable events to increase awareness and funds for the nonprofit this year. George was also a guest on the The Crisis Files podcast this month with host Roshini Rajkumar to discuss MnFIRE’s important work fighting the “silent killers” firefighters face.

Published in partnership with MnFIRE partner, Optum

It’s important to check on your friends and family members who seem OK or even appear physically and emotionally strong, including the firefighters in your life. In many cases, it’s easy to recognize when a friend is going through a tough time — maybe they recently broke up with a longtime partner, lost a job or have been battling a health concern. But in other cases, it’s not so clear when someone we care about needs emotional support.

Recognizing emotional distress

Many people live with situational or chronic depression and anxiety, among other mental health conditions. Most go untreated for a variety of reasons, including not realizing they need help, fearing unfavorable judgement or treatment, or simply seeing help as a sign of weakness. In many cases, there may be signs you can notice, such as:

• Changes in behavior, like withdrawing from or avoiding family and friends or activities they like, sleeping more, being less productive, increased use of alcohol and other substances or decreased sex drive.
• Changes in appearance, such as skipping bathing and grooming, looking tired or sad, noting physical pain, or gaining or losing a lot of weight.
• Changes in mood, like worrying and stressing out more, overreacting to situations, getting agitated, aggressive or angry or feeling sad and hopeless or showing no emotion.
• Changes in communication, such as posting dark or cryptic social media messages, criticizing themselves often, talking about physical pain or not feeling well or talking about hurting themselves.

However, some people who are in emotional pain don’t show any outward signs or symptoms. They may even appear high-achieving, cheerful, carefree and productive. If emotional distress isn’t addressed, an individual’s symptoms could worsen and eventually seriously impact their overall health and well-being, quality of life and life itself. Among other complications, untreated emotional distress can lead to:

• Depression, anxiety disorders and other mental illnesses
• Alcohol and substance use
• Physical health problems, such as weakened immune system and heart disease
• Self-harm and suicide

Feeling connected to others and having a sense of belonging are important ingredients for mental health and well-being. While you can’t make anyone share or fix their situation, showing genuine care and concern can make a difference in the moment and over their long-term recovery. If nothing else, they’ll know you care, which can provide comfort.

Tips for checking in

Commit to doing it: You may feel like you’re prying, overstepping or overreacting, or that your friend would come to you if they needed help. But you’re not, and they might not. All you can do is ask and be ready to show support.

Use a method that suits your friend: For some people, it’s easier to have a meaningful conversation in person, whereas others are more likely to open up over the phone, via email or through text. Choose the one that seems best for your loved one. If you’re unsure, ask.

Find a good time: Depending on the situation, they may have more or less free time or willingness to get together. Work around it. Ask them a good time to catch up whether by phone or in person and then schedule it.

Ask open-ended questions: Sometimes, simple questions — “How are you doing?” “What’s on your mind?” “How’s work been going?” — create the opening someone needs to share what they’re going through.

Offer examples if you are concerned. A check-in can be random, or it can be purposeful. If you think your friend is going through something difficult and noticing them exhibiting potential warning signs, gently offer them examples of what concerns you. For example:

• “I noticed you let your gym membership lapse. You love to work out. Are you OK? Is something going on?”
• “I wanted to check in with you because you seem sad and down on yourself lately, like when you said that you mess up everything and the world would be better off without you. How are you doing?”

Listen with an open mind. Let them talk. Do your best not to offer unsolicited advice, share your perspective or diagnose them. Be careful not to minimize, dismiss or explain away what they’re saying, and also be careful not to judge them, their family, friends or co-workers. Life can be messy, times can be tough and people can be disappointing. But none of those are your call to make. You’re there to offer support.

Connect them to resources. If you know of specialized support they could tap into — such as a mental health professional through MnFIRE, legal counselor, recovery center or advocacy organization — refer them.

Respect and set boundaries. If a co-worker or loved one doesn’t want to talk, that’s their decision. Let them know you are there if they change their mind.

Offer to help them. Think of ways you could support someone safely. For example, volunteer to babysit their children for an hour or two, drop off some groceries, research resources, or be available if they need to talk.

Follow up. It’s best to check in regularly with your loved ones and especially those who may be struggling at different times. Don’t assume they’ll reach out to you. People in hard times tend to withdraw and isolate themselves. And by checking in more, even during perceived good times, you can build trust and nurture your connection.

MnFIRE has your back

We encourage Minnesota firefighters and their family members to utilize no-cost confidential mental health resources through MnFIRE and the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program. Our helpline (888-784-6634) is available 24-hours a day – select option 1 for counseling visits and option 2 for peer support.

Sources

Ami Quebec, “Smiling Depression: An In-Depth.” Published Spring 2022.

Canadian Mental Health Association, “How to check in on a friend – the right way.” Accessed June 10, 2024.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Social Connection.” Published March 27, 2024.

Cleveland Clinic, “The Truth About High-Functioning Depression.” Published May 17, 2024.

Hope for the Day, “Educational Material.” Accessed June 10, 2024.

Mayo Clinic, “Mental illness – Symptoms and causes.”

NAMI, “Five Warning Signs of Mental Illness that People Miss.” Published May 3, 2021.

The Jed Foundation, “Signs that a friend may be struggling.” Accessed June 10, 2024.

As is tradition since 2011, hundreds of people gathered on the grounds of the State Capitol on the last Sunday of September this year to remember Minnesota firefighters who have died in the line of duty.

As part of this remembrance, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz proclaimed Sunday, September 28, 2025 as Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day in Minnesota, and ordered United States flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings.

With the Capitol as the backdrop, members of the fire service, family and the public gathered for the somber event organized by the Minnesota Fire Service Foundation. The 2025 Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service included a wreath laying, reading of the honor roll, bag pipes playing and a bell ceremony, along with comments from dignitaries.

Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson addressed the crowd, thanking members of the fire service for the selfless work they do in their communities, which can include physical, mental and emotional burdens. Jacobson urged those who might be struggling with the demands of firefighting to get help.

“There are others who are willing to share the weight of the service you provide,” said Jacobson. “Take advantage of the free and confidential mental health services that are available through MnFIRE, including their peer support. You are not alone.”

MnFIRE receives state funding to make the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program available to all active firefighters in Minnesota. As of August 2025, nearly 83% of Minnesota fire departments have received free training on the physical and mental health risks of firefighting as well as prevention and mitigation strategies. A network of more than 1,450 trauma-informed therapists has been created in addition to MnFIRE’s peer support network, both of which offer confidential help to firefighters and their family members. In addition, every firefighter in the state is automatically enrolled in a critical illness program, providing up to $20,000 in life-changing funds when diagnosed with cancer, cardiac issues, post-traumatic stress disorder or other qualifying conditions.

Since 1881, 253 Minnesota firefighters have died in the line of duty. Their names have been inscribed on columns throughout the nationally recognized memorial, located on the south side of the Capitol grounds. Columns were unveiled Sunday honoring Laura Zumbusch-Wood of the Victoria Fire Department, who died July 27, 2025; Andrew Karels of the Amboy Fire Department, who died June 2, 2025; Chief Jason Gruett of the Goodview Fire Department, who died March 12, 2025; Gary Schroeder, Jr., of the Zumbrota Fire Department, who died April 17, 2023; Roland Limpert of the Goodview Fire Department, who died October 31, 1965; and Assistant Chief Frederick Granzow of the Duluth Fire Department, who died Sept. 10, 1915.

With deep gratitude, we recognize their dedicated service. MnFIRE is here to support their fellow firefighters and communities. Call 888-784-6634 to get help today.

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 made its way through numerous Minnesota communities, including Carlton, Willow River, Hinckley, Pine City, Rush City, North Branch, Hugo and Vadnais Heights. The walk ended today on Sept. 21 at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul.

Day 9

Starting location: White Bear Lake, MN
Finish: St. Paul, MN
Miles completed: 12
The weather report: 75 and sunny

On the final day of Miles for MnFIRE, it was all about celebrating and cheering on firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode as they completed their walk of more than 161 miles over a nine-day period to raise awareness of the health risks that firefighters face.

With the sun shining brightly, they completed another 12 miles on their walk that took them from White Bear Lake to St. Paul today. With their final miles in the Twin Cities area, many family, friends and fellow community firefighters showed up in a big way to support and walk with Foote and Bode during the last leg of their journey.

Members of the White Bear Lake Fire Department, Vadnais Heights Fire Department, Little Canada Fire Department, Excelsior Fire District, Minneapolis Fire Department and St. Paul Fire Department were represented along Sunday’s route.

On September 13, Foote and Bode started Miles for MnFIRE in Duluth and today, September 21, they crossed the finish line at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial at the State Capitol with the American flag beautifully risen between a St. Paul fire truck and a Minneapolis fire truck. A total of five fire trucks from St. Paul, Minneapolis and Excelsior lined up to celebrate and support their own on this amazing accomplishment.

MnFIRE President Mike Dobesh and Executive Director Rebecca Otto thanked everyone who helped plan and support the walk, including sponsors, volunteers, fire service family and friends, and the many communities that hosted the team along the route. They also presented Foote and Bode with crystal flame trophies to represent hope for the fire service and commemorate the experience. In total, they walked over 52 hours to complete the journey.

“This walk wasn’t about me or Doug,” says Bode. “It was about the health and wellness of all the firefighters in the state and I hope we brought more awareness to the need and the things MnFIRE is doing. I hope we’ve inspired firefighters to take their health and wellness seriously.”

“My only ask of all you firefighters is please, you’ve got to take care of yourselves,” says Foote. “We can’t be another statistic. We cannot. Please use MnFIRE. Please use each other. Because if not us, who?”

The story of their accomplishment will be heard far and wide. Multiple news outlets were at the finish line to capture the memorable moment, including WCCO 4 (CBS), KMSP 9 (FOX), KSTP 5 (ABC) and the Pioneer Press. In addition, Minnesota Public Radio (MPR), KARE 11 (NBC), and WDIO (ABC) in Duluth are also expected to mention Miles for MnFIRE in news stories.

The walk is officially over but MnFIRE’s work continues — every day. If you’d like to support the nonprofit organization by making a financial donation, the pledge page for Miles for MnFIRE will remain open until October 1. Click here to make a contribution.

Some photos by Ric Rosow

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, White Bear Lake 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 8

Starting location: Wyoming, MN
Finish for the day: White Bear Lake, MN
Miles completed: 19
The weather report: 73 and cloudy

It was a poignant day on the Miles for MnFIRE trail.

Today, Minnesota firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode completed another 19 miles on their walk from Duluth to St. Paul. They’ve now completed 147 miles of the more than 150-mile journey that aims to raise awareness and funds for firefighter health.

At the same time, firefighters from across the country who made the ultimate sacrifice were being honored at the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Springs. Over 311 names were added to the memorial wall, including St. Paul Fire Department Captain Larry Goodman who died of cancer last year. Bode, a fellow member of the St. Paul Fire Department, is walking Miles for MnFIRE in Goodman’s honor.

Cancer is the leading cause of line of duty death among firefighters. Cardiac and emotional trauma are two other major health problems commonly experienced by those in the fire service. The Minnesota Firefighter Initiative (MnFIRE) is dedicated to providing Minnesota’s firefighters with the tools they need to prioritize and protect their health. Through the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program, MnFIRE combines three vital resources for all active volunteer, paid-on-call, part-time and full-time Minnesota firefighters at no cost:

• MnFIRE Assistance Program with emotional trauma resources
• Up-to-$20,000 Critical Illness insurance policy
• Ongoing health and wellness training

On Sept. 13, Foote and Bode began this walk to inform their fellow fire services members about these resources. And tomorrow, Sept. 21, they will complete their journey at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol. Please come celebrate Foote and Bode’s accomplishment as we work to better the health of Minnesota’s fire service. We are expecting them to arrive around 1 p.m.

You can also support Miles for MnFIRE by making a financial donation. 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.

We hope to see you at the Capitol on Sunday, September 21, at 1 p.m.

Some photos by Ric Rosow

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

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, 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 6
Starting location: Pine City, MN
Finish for the day: Harris, MN
Miles completed: 18
The weather report: 78 and overcast

What is the ideal way to celebrate your birthday? Maybe you take the day off of work. Maybe you treat yourself with a visit to your favorite coffee shop, restaurant, or spa. Well, if you are St. Paul firefighter Kyle Bode, you happily spend it walking 18 miles in the name of firefighter health.

“I couldn’t have had a better birthday than doing what I did today,” says Bode. “This walk has been super special, and it will be a very memorable birthday!”

Indeed. As Bode and his counterpart, Doug Foote, made their way through Pine City this morning, local elementary school students lined the sidewalks to cheer them on and sing Bode “Happy Birthday.” The kids gave them high-fives and handshakes to start the day off right.

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Further down the route in Rock Creek, the team passed by a pickleball tournament and the players paused to sing “Happy Birthday!” Foote and Bode were challenged to a game, but as you can imagine, they needed to save their energy for the walk.

In Rush City, Excelsior Fire District Chief Curt Mackey and his wife joined the team, along with Bode’s wife, Kara. The crew took up Rush City Fire Chief Bob Carlson’s recommendation to stop at Rush City Bakery, picking up some marble birthday cake that was absolutely as good as everyone made it out to be.

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And as Foote and Bode made their way to the final destination of the day in Harris, Minn., a crowd including Bode’s family were there to congratulate the team on another day completed. The makeshift birthday party, including Minnesota DNR firefighters and Harris Fire Department members, was a nice way to end the day.

Thus far, they’ve now completed 112 of the 150-mile route. They’re doing as well as you can imagine considering the grueling endeavor.

“We’re holding up ok, but it was another hot day on the highway” says Foote. “I was grateful for MnFIRE Vice President Amber Lage protecting us the whole way. But my favorite part of the day was when Kyle’s family met him to walk into Harris.”

With the stop in Harris, Miles for MnFIRE is officially two-thirds of the way done. Friday, September 19, the team will move on to Wyoming, Minn. From there, on Saturday, September 20, the team walks to White Bear Lake. The final leg will be on Sunday, September 21, from White Bear Lake to the grounds of the State Capitol. We welcome you to join us at any part of this journey, to cheer on the walkers or take part in the walk itself. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here.

And, if you’ve been wondering what you should get Bode for his birthday, donate to Miles for MnFIRE. 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

 

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, Willow River, Hinckley, Pine City, 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 5
Starting location: Groningen, MN
Finish for the day: Pine City, MN
Miles completed: 24
The weather report: 90°+ on the blacktop and direct sun

Day five on the Miles for MnFIRE journey proved one thing for sure: when two firefighters have a goal in mind, they will work together — and crush that goal.

Doug Foote and Kyle Bode are walking more than 150 miles from Duluth to St. Paul to raise awareness and funds for firefighter health. The entire walk will take nine days, most of which are planned with approximately 18-mile stints. But today, day five of the journey, was a behemoth – nearly 24 miles in less-than-ideal conditions.

The day started out well in Groningen, but as the route moved through Hinckley and Mission Creek, the team had to turn away from the shady Willard Munger Trail and onto the black asphalt of Highway 23, the St. Croix Scenic Byway, and Old Highway 61, both blasted with direct sunlight.

But they did it, in good spirits, and finished in Pine City before the rainstorms hit. It wasn’t easy, but there were many bright spots in the day to boost their spirits. The biggest highlight was crossing the halfway mark of their journey.

“It feels really good to get over the midway point,” says Bode. “We had lots of friends join us today, which was nice. It helped take our mind off the walk.”

Joining Foote and Bode today were several retired and active firefighters, MnFIRE mental health providers from ProNetwork, and Gracy, a support-dog-in-training from Soldier 6. Because of her puppy-sized stride, once in a while Gracy caught a ride in a stroller.

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And, good news travels! Today, both the White Bear Press and Forest Lake Times published stories about Miles for MnFIRE. As the story of this journey continues to spread throughout Minnesota, we hope more people can join in supporting Foote, Bode, and the MnFIRE mission.

How can you do that? Your financial donation will help provide resources to Minnesota firefighters across the state. To contribute, click here. You are also welcome to join us on the Miles for MnFIRE trail. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here. And finally, we invite you to the finish line. The team is on schedule to finish at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul on Sunday, Sept. 21. Join us for the celebratory finish of this major accomplishment.

Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Facebook for more updates along the way.

Some photos by Ric Rosow

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, Willow River, Groningen, 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 4
Starting location: Sturgeon Lake, MN
Finish for the day: Groningen, MN
Miles completed: 18
The weather report: HOT! 85 and very sunny

Firefighters are used to heat, but today was “a bit of a grind,” as Miles for MnFIRE walker Doug Foote put it. With highs in the mid-80’s and bright, scorching sun, day four of the more than 150-mile walk from Duluth to St. Paul was a display of endurance and resilience.

Minnesota firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode completed an additional 18 miles of their walk, which is raising awareness and funds for firefighter health. They’ve now completed 70 miles total, with today’s stretch covering Sturgeon Lake to Groningen, MN.

Besides their sheer determination, the support system helping the walkers every day has been key to their success. Foote’s wife, Denise, and MnFIRE Executive Director Rebecca Otto have been present since the start in Duluth. They help with food and hydration, set up at rest stops and shave managed route planning. Their presence and attention to detail is enabling the walkers focus on their endurance and the true meaning of the event.

Today, Bode’s wife Kara surprised him on the trail! Kara owns a dance studio and with her commitments there, she wasn’t expected to appear during the Miles for MnFIRE journey until the finish.

“I thought maybe she’d surprise me at some point, but it was a surprise – and a very nice one,” says Bode. “I’ve been having a great time on this experience, and having her here, too, just makes it that much better.”

Another great support today were students from John W. Osborne Finlayson Elementary School. A group of K-6^th graders lined the school’s sidewalks, cheering on Foote and Bode with high-fives, fist bumps and smiles. Foote and Bode used the opportunity to take a short break, and talk with the students about health and wellness.

“We were quite tired and dehydrated at the time, but we knew that we were going to visit the Finlayson Elementary kids, and they didn’t disappoint,” says Foote. “As we rounded the corner with the Finlayson fire engine behind us, we saw all of the cheering kids and our spirits were immediately lifted. It was so awesome to see all of these wonderful teachers and kids coming out and their enthusiasm. It will no doubt be one of the high points of the walk.”

Tomorrow the team will hit their route halfway mark, as they attack over 25 miles on their most aggressive day of the entire trek.  If you’d like to show your support for this amazing team, here are a few ways:

• Donate to Miles for MnFIRE. We are still seeking sponsors and donors to help provide resources to Minnesota firefighters across the state. To contribute, click here.
• Join Doug and Kyle on the walk. You are welcome to cheer on or join Kyle and Doug as they walk through your community. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here.
• Meet us at the finish line. The team is on track to approach the State Capitol in St. Paul on Sunday, Sept. 21 on their way to the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial, where they’ll finish their over 150-mile feat. We’d love to have you celebrate our walkers and honor the Minnesota fire service.

Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Facebook for more updates along the way.

Some photos by Ric Rosow