12-mile commute on foot gives man time to reflect

MCKINNEY, TX (KTRK) -- The mere thought of walking 2.5 hours to work might make your muscles ache, but one man makes the best of his unorthodox commute.

Patrick Edmond's morning starts at 8:00, when he walks through town over a bridge and down a service road. He makes the 12-mile hike to work five days a week, and he said he uses that time to reflect on the struggles of his life and the people he's lost.

"Life knocks you down sometimes. You gotta get up and keep going. Keep walking," Edmond said. "I would love to have a car, but a car don't make the person."

A police officer posted about Edmond on social media after noticing him taking his daily walks. Thanks to that now-viral post, Edmond has re-connected with family members after several years.

Braum's, the restaurant chain where Edmond works, told ABC News in a statement that Edmond "is a hard-working and dedicated employee" who has been with the company for almost a year.

"He always has a smile on his face and a jump in his step," Braum's said. "We cannot say enough about Patrick. His commitment to his work is remarkable and we commend him. We look forward to what the future has in store for him."

Braum's offered Edmond the opportunity to transfer to a location closer to his home, but he declined, saying he was excited to work in McKinney.

ABC News contributed to this report.