This boot was made for walking

A grandfather with an oversized boot walked through Sault Ste. Marie on Monday, asking drivers and passers-by to throw loose change and bills in support of his cause.

“Grandpa Bob” Facca, who is from London, Onario, is walking 4000 kilometres from Quebec City to Winnipeg to raise money and awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy research.

Facca’s grandson Louie has been diagnosed with Duchenne.

“The muscles don’t repair themselves and get worse and worse. By the time you’re 12 or 14 years old you’re in a wheelchair and your life is downhill from there,” said Facca.

Facca left Quebec City on May 12 and has been averaging 20 to 25 kilometres a day.

Asked if weather has been a challenge, Facca replied, “We have no challenges. The boys have the challenge. When I finish at the end of the day I can put my feet up and go in the hot tub. These kids wake up and their muscles are sore all the time.”

The original Jessie’s Jouney was completed in the mid-nineties, since then other people have had their own walks in support of the cause.

“We’re trying to add more funds to the journey so we can find a cure,” said Facca.

Facca and his entourage are making their way to Wawa, en route to Winnipeg.

“People are so generous, it’s amazing,” he said.

(PHOTO: “Grandpa Bob” Facca is seen on Queen Street Monday afternoon during his 4000km walk in support of Duchenne muscular dystrophy research. Kenneth Armstrong/SooToday)