Thousands raised, but 'Walking Dude' may walk away from it all

More than $32,000 has been raised to help "The Walking Dude" get back on his feet.

But the beloved Loop street wanderer, who's real name is Joseph Kromelis, is apparently - as he has done for years - keeping to himself.

And, as donations accumulate after word spread that Kromelis was brutally beaten last week on Lower Wacker Drive by a man with a baseball bat, it's not clear how to get the money in Kromelis' hands. Or if he wants it.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital spokesman Chris King said Kromelis made it clear to hospital staff that he did not want any media attention.

Linda Kromelis, a sister-in-law, and Vitas Vaitkus, a nephew, have tried getting in touch with Kromelis, but have not been able to confirm he is even at the hospital.

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