This year’s Darkness Into Light event across the Midlands was launched by Pieta House in Tullamore. Taking place on Saturday May 9, Darkness Into Light is a unique, early morning experience which begins in darkness at 4.15am as thousands of people walk or run a 5km route while dawn is breaking.
Brian Higgins CEO of the suicide and self-harm crisis centre, Pieta House, was joined by a number of supporters including comedian Neil Delamere, footballer Niall McNamee, and representatives from various local organisations and businesses. Volunteers from the Darkness Into Light committees from Athlone, Tullamore, Mountmellick, Mullingar, and Longford along with representatives from Pieta House were also there to lend their support.
“Darkness Into Light is a people’s event organised by local committees all over the country. Although the number of people walking has never been greater, neither has the need. I’m delighted Tullamore, Mountmellick, Mullingar, Longford, and Athlone are hosting the event once again this year. The extraordinary growth of Darkness Into Light, even in just the past year, is an example of how Darkness Into Light is uniting people across the globe in solidarity with those who suffer,” Brian Higgins said. He added “While suicide is a devastating tragedy, we must not forget that there is hope, there is help, and Pieta House will be there to provide both,” said Mr Higgins.
Darkness Into Light is now in its seventh year and last year’s event attracted 80,000 participants in 39 locations across Ireland, and in London and Sydney. With the number of locations doubling this year, organisers are expecting over 100,000 people to take part.
While Darkness Into Light raises much-needed funds, it is also about awareness, solidarity, and local communities. This year, Pieta House is asking those taking part to connect with others at the event. Walkers/runners are encouraged to speak to the person beside them, tell a story or simply say hello, connect and acknowledge one another. Make your presence known. No one should walk alone.
Darkness Into Light events across the Midlands are taking registrations now.
Online registration and further details are available now at www.darknessintolight.ie
For more information on Darkness Into Light in Tullamore, Mountmellick, Mullingar, Longford, and Athlone contact Tom McEvoy on (087 ) 2430700.
