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From Grief to Mountains: Gillian Millane’s Inspiring Story

Posted by Jess Pitman on 13-Jan-2025 08:15:00
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In December 2018, Grace Millane’s life was tragically cut short while she was living her dream of travelling the world. Grace’s adventurous spirit, love of life, and kind heart are remembered by so many—but especially by her mum, Gill.

Gillian was already part of the Discover Adventure family, having taken incredible trips with us to Patagonia and Costa Rica in 2016 and 2017. Tragically, just a few years after Grace's murder, she found herself mourning not only Grace but also her husband, David, who passed away from cancer in 2020. It’s hard to imagine the strength needed to endure such profound loss, but Gill has turned her grief into action in ways that continue to inspire us every single day.

Since 2022, Gillian has tackled four monumental challenges: Trek Sri Lanka, Trek Vietnam, Trek Kilimanjaro, and, in September 2024, Everest Base Camp, where she and Team Millane braved some of the harshest weather conditions we’ve ever seen on the challenge. Each adventure has been a tribute to Grace and David—a journey powered by love, loss, and an unwavering determination to make a difference.

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Gill has often told us that Grace and David are always with her on these challenges, pushing her forward when the going gets tough. At Discover Adventure HQ, we’ve shared emotional phone calls and heartfelt emails with Gill over the years. Her story has touched all of us, and whenever there’s been uncertainty about a trip’s viability, we’ve dug deep to do everything we can to make it happen—for Gill, for Grace, and David.

But Gillian’s story doesn’t end with her adventure achievements. She has dedicated herself to creating lasting change in Grace’s memory. With her niece, Hannah, she co-founded Love Grace, a campaign that fills handbags with essentials for women fleeing domestic violence. The campaign has donated over 23,000 bags across the UK and the world, offering countless women comfort, hope, and dignity.

Gill is also a passionate advocate for White Ribbon UK, which works to end male violence against women and challenge harmful attitudes. These causes are a fitting tribute to Grace’s life and values and a testament to Gill’s incredible strength and compassion.

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At Discover Adventure, it’s an absolute privilege to support Gillian in her journey. We're immensely proud of helping her reach new heights—whether it’s the summit of Kilimanjaro, the base of Everest, or the deeper purpose behind every step.

If you’d like to learn more or support the causes close to Gillian’s heart, visit Love Grace and White Ribbon UK.

Topics: Tales from the outdoors, Your Adventures