Launch of Kiltimagh’s first ever Darkness Into Light walk takes place

The first-ever Darkness Into Light Kiltimagh walk to be held in Kiltimagh promises to be one of the biggest walks in Mayo.

 Over 250 people have registered to take part in the town's inaugural Darkness Into Light walk, which takes place on May 11.

Darkness Into Light is a nationwide event which is the flagship funding campaign for Pieta, a charity which assists those affected by suicide and mental health issues.

Last year in Connacht alone, Pieta provided over 4,000 hours of therapy and saw over 500 clients across the province. The charity also supported almost 100 families and households bereaved by suicide.

The launch of the walk took place in Tommy Ryan's Bar in Kiltimagh yesterday (Friday) and was attended by  Irma Joyce Campaign Executive Connacht, Pieta West, and local GP Dr Diarmuid Murray.

Speaking at the Darkness Into Light Kiltimagh launch, Chairperson Joe Corry said: “Suicide prevention and mental health support services is something which myself and all members of the committee are absolutely passionate about. That is why we decided to take the reins this year to organise Kiltimagh’s Inaugural Darkness Into Light Walk, alternating with Swinford Darkness Into Light who are taking a break for this year. Along with the rest of the team we are absolutely delighted to work with Pieta and Electric Ireland to support this year’s campaign and to celebrate the most important sunrise of the year right here in our hometown of Kiltimagh”

The Darkness into Light Kiltimagh walk begins at the Bocce Courts at 4.15am.

The walk traverses the hinterlands of Cordarragh and Kilchon in Kiltimagh taking participants on just under a 5-kilometre looped walk before finishing back at the Bocce Courts at dawn.

Pieta depends on the funds generated by Darkness Into Light, with over 85% of the charity’s annual income coming from public fundraising. Pieta’s 300 qualified Therapists, Suicide Bereavement Liaison Officers and support staff across the country rely on this essential income to continue their lifesaving work.

You can register for Darkness Into Light by signing up at www.darknessintolight.ie.

You can follow Darkness Into  Light Kiltimagh on Facebook at www.facebook.com/darknessintolightkiltimagh

To avail of Pieta services, visit www.pieta.ie or call  0818 111 126. Pieta provides 24/7 support via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply).