For Karl, for you, for me.

In April 2026, I will be running the London Marathon in memory of my best friend and partner , Karl — and for everyone affected by his loss, anyone living with mental illness, or bereaved by suicide.

Karl was 33 years old when he took his life at our home in February 2025. He was a devoted father to two beautiful little girls, an irreplaceable friend to many, and someone who dedicated his life to helping others — first as a firefighter, then as non-emergency patient transport with the Welsh Ambulance Service, working his way up to a front-line Emergency Medical Technician. He was less than one year away from graduating as a paramedic.

Karl was brave, smart, compassionate, unequivocally hilarious and incredibly loved. But like so many who pour their energy into helping others, he carried burdens of his own — quietly and deeply.

His loss has shattered me. And it has deeply affected his family, his friends, his colleagues, and the many people who love him. When someone dies by suicide, it’s not only one life lost — a part of everyone who loves them dies too.

If you'd asked me in these months since how I’ve been, you likely would’ve heard: “Alright,” or “Getting on,” or maybe something laced with the dark humour that anyone outside of the emergency services would be mortified by.

But the truth? I feel like I’ve been dying from the inside out. I’ve never been less alone — surrounded by incredible people — and yet I’ve never felt so lonely. There have been moments I truly wasn’t sure I would survive this, or even if I wanted to.

I am not special or unique. In a lifetime 1 in 5 have suicidal thoughts; 1 in 14 self‑harm; 1 in 15 attempt suicide. Only 1/3 of those needing help receive it. It is the leading cause of death in men under the age of 50.

My amazing family, friends, colleagues and even strangers have quite literally kept me alive. The outpour of care and support has been nothing short of phenomenal. If you have been any small part of that, I thank and appreciate you more than you likely know.

But I must also thank Mind, for their resources and guidance during the moments I don’t want to 'bother' anyone. When I can’t bring myself to reach out, they are always quietly there — and that matters more than I can say.

I am still not ‘alright’, but I will be. And this challenge is helping me get there.

So, I am running this marathon not only in memory of Karl — a man who deserved so much more — but also for me. And for you.

For anyone struggling. For anyone grieving. For anyone putting on a brave face while falling apart inside. For those who think they’re a burden. For the helpers who don’t know how to ask for help. For those left behind.

If you are able to donate anything at all to support me in this challenge, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and Karl's. Your support will go directly to Mind, helping them continue to support people in their darkest moments — and helping prevent more families from experiencing this devastating kind of loss.

Please check-in and look after each other,

Love Lorna xx

If You Need Help or Support

Mind Charity (UK Mental Health Support)

Info-line: 0300_123_3393

www.mind.org.uk

The Jac Lewis Foundation (Support for those affected by suicide)

Helpline: 03301 336510

www.jaclewisfoundation.co.uk