Grace Mills

Every mile for Ellie-Mae. Running the London Marathon to raise money and keep her memory alive.

On the 25th of April 2024, my best friend Ellie-Mae tragically passed away in a car accident caused by a dangerous driver. She was just 19 years old. During the scene, she was airlifted by air ambulance and rushed to hospital.

In the early hours of that morning, I received the call to come to the hospital. When I arrived, I was told Ellie had been placed on life support. The nurses said she could still hear us — so I held her hand, spoke to her and wished everything would go back to the way things were.

Not long after I got home that same day I got the call to say Ellie had passed away. Nothing in life prepares you for that kind of loss. Never in my life could I imagine loosing a friend, especially a best friend. It’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. None of us could understand how someone so full of life, happiness and laughter could just be gone. I was in disbelief for months. No one should ever have to go through loosing a friend, especially at such a young age. 

Even as I slowly started putting myself back together, I felt constant guilt. I felt bad for going out, seeing my family, seeing my other friends, for laughing, for making plans. It felt wrong to carry on as normal when Ellie wasn’t able to do this anymore. 

All of us were completely broken but are so lucky to have each other - sharing tears, memories, and holding on tight to Ellie in every moment we could. Every time we go out, we know she is with us.

The grief of losing a bestfriend has been the most painful experience of my life. But somehow, through the love of some truly incredible friends and the constant support of my family, I’ve made it through the darkest of days.

Now, I want to do something meaningful in Ellie’s name. I am running the London Marathon on Sunday 26th April 2026 in memory of Ellie, to raise money for the charity that fought to save her life, and to honour the incredible soul that she was. Ellie was a one of a kind friend, she was Funny, crazy, happy and so full of light. She was the kind of friend who made every room brighter just by walking in and never failed to make anyone laugh. She deserved so much more time in this world.

The London air ambulance made it possible for me to say goodbye to my best friend and I can’t explain how thankful I am - I appreciate any donations and all of the support. Every single step I take on the day of the marathon is for her. Every mile is filled with love, with grief and with strength.

Thank you for reading. I appreciate any donation and all of the support given.

Grace Mills ♥️