Darkness into light initiative launched in Mayo ahead of May walk

The official launch of this year’s Darkness Into Light Kiltimagh took place over the weekend, marking the return of the important fundraising event to the East Mayo town.

The walk, in aid of Pieta House, will take place on Saturday, May 9, at 4.15 am, with participants gathering in the early hours to show support for those affected by suicide and self-harm.

The walk will begin at the Bocce Courts in Kiltimagh and follow a looped route of just under 5km through the surrounding areas of Cordarragh and Kilcon, finishing at dawn. The symbolic event begins in darkness and ends in daylight, representing hope and recovery.

Organised in support of Pieta and sponsored nationally by Electric Ireland, Darkness Into Light is one of the country’s most significant fundraising initiatives. In 2026, 190 walks will take place across 12 countries, following participation of over 80,000 people in 2025.

Now in its second year in Kiltimagh, organisers say the event is an opportunity for the community to come together in solidarity while raising vital funds for mental health services.

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Chairperson Joe Corry, who leads the local organising committee, praised the community’s response to the campaign.

“Suicide prevention and mental health support services are something we are all deeply passionate about,” he said. “We are delighted to organise Kiltimagh’s second Darkness Into Light walk and to work alongside Pieta to bring this important event to our town once again.”

He added that the walk is about more than fundraising. “It’s a powerful statement of hope, solidarity, and community support. We are asking everyone in Kiltimagh and surrounding areas to come out and walk with us.”

The launch night was attended by several guest speakers, including Garda Sergeant Regina Carley, who highlighted the devastating impact of suicide on families and communities.

“In my professional capacity, I have seen the grief that suicide causes,” she said. “That is why it is so important to support initiatives like Darkness Into Light, which help provide essential services for those in need.”

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Also present were members of the community who shared personal stories, including the family of Red Óg Murphy, whose contribution added a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness.

Attendees described the evening as both emotional and uplifting, with the Murphy family’s contribution highlighting the real-life impact of suicide and the importance of support services.

Darkness Into Light is a nationwide initiative that sees communities across Ireland and beyond walk from darkness into dawn, symbolising hope and recovery.

Organisers in Kiltimagh are encouraging people from across the region to take part in this year’s event, with funds raised going directly towards providing free counselling and support services for those in crisis.

The walk is expected to draw strong local participation once again, building on the success of its return to the town last year.

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If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this article, you can contact Pieta House day or night by calling them free of charge on 1800 247 247, texting them on 51 444, or visiting www.pieta.ie.