I've created this page in memory of a loved one.
Strides of Love– A Mother’s Journey Through the Sahara for Gem
On the 25th of November 2023, our lives changed forever. We lost our beloved son and hero, Gem, to suicide at the age of 31. The pain of his loss is indescribable—something no parent should ever have to endure. His absence has left a deep and lasting void in our hearts.
To honour Gem’s memory, I’ve committed to take on one of the most gruelling endurance events on earth: the Marathon des Sables Legendary. This ultramarathon, taking place in the Sahara Desert from the 3rd to the 13th of April 2026, spans 250 kilometres over six consecutive stages—across sand dunes, rocky plains, and scorching temperatures—all while carrying my own food and gear for the entire race.
I’m not an athlete. I’ve never done anything like this before. But I will push through every blister, every step, and every challenge—not powered by adrenaline, but by the pure and unwavering love of a mother. My goal is not just to reach the finish line, but to carry Gem’s spirit with me every step of the way.
During the darkest time of our lives, Rethink Support After Suicide service became a lifeline. Their care, compassion, and guidance have meant more than words can express. Now, I’m raising funds so that Rethink Mental Illness Charity can continue this vital work, helping other families and friends devastated by suicide.
💛 Please support this journey in memory of Gem.
Your donation—no matter how big or small—will make a meaningful difference. Together, we can ensure that no one has to navigate this pain alone. Help us raise awareness, offer support, and honour the lives of those lost too soon.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Ylang Fernandez Lowman
To read my full story, click on the link 👉https://www.rethink.org/news-and-stories/blogs/2025/05/the-extraordinary-power-of-love-ylang-s-story/
My Achievements
Fundraising page
Updated Profile Pic
Added a Blog Post
Received 5 Donations
Reached Goal
Increased Target
My Updates
My First Marathon Distance (aka 'The Crawl to the Finish')
Friday 8th Aug02 August 2025
Well... I did it. I completed my first marathon-distance run. It wasn't fast. It wasn't pretty. But I crossed that finish line (aka my front door) in just under 7 hours. Here's how it all unfolded:
The Plan (or Lack Thereof)
I'll be honest, I was underprepared going in. I had mapped out a scenic route to Guildford along the River Wey, thinking it would be peaceful and straightforward. Turns out, that path is anything but smooth. The terrain was uneven and about halfway through, my right knee's IT band syndrome flared up badly. From there on, I was basically limping.
Fueling Fail
To make things more interesting, I forgot to order more energy gels ahead of time, so I went into this with far too little fuel. Not ideal when you're covering 42 kilometres. My energy dipped hard in the later stages.
The CamelBak Dilemma
I had packed 2 liters of water in my CamelBak, which felt manageable at first but quickly became a burden. It got so heavy that I started internally negotiating with myself: "If I drink more, at least I'll weigh less..." Probably not the most efficient hydration strategy, but desperate times, called for desperate measures.
The Final Stretch
By the final few kilometres, I was running on sheer willpower (and very little else). Like a wounded soldier l crawled to the finish line aka my front door. My husband had joked beforehand that I might not be back until the next day. He wasn't entirely wrong.
The Finish
6 hours and 54 minutes later, I made it. No medal, no crowd-just the sweet relief of being horizontal. But I finished. And for a first marathon, especially one done solo and underprepared, I'm calling that a win.
ShareThank you to my Sponsors
£32.23
Gemma Bessant
£29.15
Anonymous
£13.46
Anonymous
£11.33
Zannina
Keep going Ylang. Every step helps. Gem would be very proud of you.
£11.33
Casandra Ponta
This is amazing Ylang! Xxx cas
I had the privilege of supporting Ylang after the heartbreaking loss of her son to suicide. Her courage, resilience, and determination have been nothing short of inspiring. Now, she’s taking on this incredible challenge to raise vital funds for Rethink Mental Illness, helping us continue to support others through their own grief and loss. Ylang is truly amazing, and every step she takes will be in honour of her son and for everyone affected by suicide. Please show your support if you can – every donation makes a difference. 💙