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-6th 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
