SWEAT dripped steadily down Lejeune Emmanuel’s face as she pushed herself to her limit when she embarked on a 38km march while carrying 20kg on her back recently. Luckily, with the cheers of her closest family and friends she was able to get the second wind and complete it. The physical test was a way of honouring her husband, Andrew Emmanuel, and her sister, Jenelle Mathou, who recently died.

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The route

Her march began at Fynnland Sports Club, and she followed a carefully chosen route weaving through Wentworth and The Bluff. The route was designed to allow her to pass significant places, filled with the memories of her family.

Apart from the gruelling distance and weight, Emmanuel was already dealing with an existing injury that added to the challenge.

“I could really feel the weight of the pack and the pain from my injury intensified between the 20 and 30km marks. That stretch tested my will the most,” said Emmanuel.

The physical strain was undeniable, but it was the connection to her purpose that kept her moving forward. “I was determined to finish what I started,” she said.

Her journey was supported at every step by family, friends and a community of runners whose encouragement helped her tackle the toughest parts when her strength faltered.

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The real reason behind the march

Yet, the march was not just about physical endurance; it was a deeply emotional experience.

“I chose to walk the first 10km alone. During that time, I listened to a playlist of meaningful songs that reminded me of the memories and moments connected to my husband Drew and my sister Nell. There were moments where I cried and moments where I smiled. Walking past places that hold so many memories made life feel incredibly real … the love, the loss, the journey and everything in between. It reminded me of how deeply these people shaped my life,” said Emmanuel.

That solitude was essential for her emotional process. “In many ways, those first kilometres were about releasing pain but also honouring love. It was deeply emotional, but also incredibly healing,” she said.

A highlight moment for Emmanuel came near the end of the march, when her daughters and other family members joined her for the last kilometre. According to Emmanuel sharing those last steps with her loved ones was very meaningful.

Reflection

Looking back, Emmanuel believes the walk revealed something important, it was not just about the distance, but about the whole experience and the people who supported her.

“Grief can feel lonely, but we are never truly alone. The love, support, and encouragement from so many people helped every step of the way. I will always be thankful for that,” she said.

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