File Photo
An estimated 150,000 people turned out for dawn walks for Pieta House’s annual Darkness Into Light fundraising and awareness event.
The 5km walk, supported by Electric Ireland, got underway at 4.15am this morning, Saturday May 6th, in over 120 locations in Ireland, including Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, Castlerea and Roscommon town, as well as 30 locations across the world.
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Pieta House has centres across the country and provides free counselling to anyone in suicidal crisis, anyone bereaved by suicide, and people who engage in self-harm. Through their support and counselling services, Pieta House aims to bring light to people’s lives during times of crisis.
Over the last 11 years Pieta House has provided face-to-face professional therapy to more than 28,000 people. This support is always given completely free of charge, which is why they rely so heavily on the help and donations of volunteers and supporters. If you couldn’t take part in a Darkness into Light walk this year you can donate €2 by texting DILWAKEUP to 50300.
Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has commended those who took part
“I want to congratulate the 150,000 people who participated in the Darkness to Light walks around the country this Saturday morning and especially the many people who walked locally and the organisers of the various events as well. We must continue to raise awareness of mental health issues and do anything we can to prevent self harm and suicide. There has been much positive work done in recent years to remove the stigma connected with mental health issues and suicide and that work must continue. The Darkness to Light initiative, while it is a major fund-raiser for Pieta House which is badly needed, is also a hugely valuable event to raise awareness of the problems that are out there and a message to people affected that there is help available. Once again well done to all concerned” he concluded