With over 20 years in the fire service, Kyle Bode, a member of the St. Paul Fire Department, has witnessed his fellow firefighters suffer occupational health issues including emotional trauma, cardiac disease and cancer. In fact, the recent loss of a firefighter friend to brain cancer is motivating him to find more support for the health and wellness of Minnesota’s fire service – and he’s willing to walk 150 miles to get it.
Miles for MnFIRE 2025 kicks off at Duluth Fire Station #1 on Sept. 13, and will finish at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial at the State Capitol on Sept. 21. Bode will walk over eight days with Excelsior Fire District member Doug Foote to raise much needed funds for the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative (MnFIRE), which provides training and benefits to help firefighters prioritize and protect their health. Foote, an 18-year member of the fire service, walked in the inaugural Miles for MnFIRE event in 2021.
We asked Bode to share more about Miles for MnFIRE and the motivation that will help him every step of the way:
What inspired you to take on this 150-mile walk?
I wholeheartedly believe in MnFIRE’s mission. I am currently an instructor for MnFIRE trainings and serve as a peer supporter. Everything MnFIRE offers is important, especially the education they are providing to departments across the state. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” It’s crucial to educate firefighters about the occupational risks associated with their job so they can protect themselves, rather than wait until something happens. I’ve unfortunately had several friends die from occupational cardiac events, cancer and suicide. Most recently, my good friend, Larry Goodman, passed away from glioblastoma. I am walking to honor him and the others we’ve lost in my department and throughout the state.
Why is supporting MnFIRE so important?
Supporting MnFIRE is important because they take care of the people who care for community members. Firefighters face higher risks of cancer, heart problems and mental health struggles than almost anyone else. MnFIRE gives us the tools, training and support we need to stay healthy and keep doing our jobs safely.
By supporting MnFIRE, we’re helping firefighters live longer, healthier lives – and that means stronger and safer communities for all of us.
How have you prepared for this journey, mentally and physically?
I have been walking and rucking a lot! Mentally, I know the walk will be challenging, but I have a plan to keep reminding myself WHY I’m walking. That should help me with any mental challenges.
What are you most looking forward to as Miles for MnFIRE approaches?
I’m most looking forward to meeting and walking with people along the route. These conversations will keep me motivated, and I’m sure that I will hear stories of occupational health challenges that firefighters have faced and fought.
How do people react when you tell them you are walking 150+ miles to raise awareness for firefighter health and wellness?
Honestly, not too many people are surprised. I’ve spent a significant portion of my life challenging myself in various ways. Many firefighters have thanked me for stepping up and they have shown a great deal of support. A few have even offered to help in different ways along the route.
What do you hope people take away from watching your Miles for MnFIRE journey?
I hope it inspires other firefighters to take their health seriously and raises awareness about the health risks we face in this job.
To show your support for the walkers, MnFIRE and all who bravely serve in Minnesota’s fire service, consider making a donation or sponsoring Miles for MnFIRE. Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, all Miles for MnFIRE donations up to $10,000 will be matched dollar for dollar until Sept. 21. Plus, any individual donating $200 or more can receive a Miles for MnFIRE hat!
If you are interested in cheering on the walkers, we’ll be posting more information on the route and daily updates on our website.
