African American slave, escapes, whilst on a walking journey he discovers he has healing powers

[Christie]

Read about 25 years ago, might have had the word "god" in the title but it wasn't a religious book as such.
The slave was a male. He escapes and ends up walking a long distance. He stops in towns and villages and has the ability to heal disabilities and so on.
Borrowed the book from a family friend who died not long after, so never had the chance to ask her the name of it.
Any help appreciated 😊

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Is this aimed at children, YA, or adults? Author female or male? Remember the cover?

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Christie, are you still looking for this or did you find it?

[Daisy]

It sounds like it has a lot in common with The Water Dancer, but of course that's much too new.